NEW YORK,– The TV adaptation of Sue Grafton’s multimillion-selling Kinsey Millhone mystery books, which the author once promised she would return from her grave to stop, is in the works.
A+E Studios announced this Week that it had acquired Grafton’s alphabet rights. The series includes titles such as “A Is for Alibi and “E Is for Evidence.” Grafton died in 2017 before she could create a story for Z.
Barry Jossen, President and Head of A+E Studios stated in a statement that Sue Grafton was “the ultimate storyteller” who spent decades entertaining people through her rich characters, spellbinding mysteries, and other stories. We are proud to continue her legacy and bring these timeless tales to life. We are currently speaking with interested platforms to find a showrunner and the right actress to play the role of Kinsey Milhone.
Grafton’s many admirers might be happy to see her work on screen and might wonder who will play Millhone. They may also recall a vow Grafton made in 1997. It was inspired by her painful experiences with writing television movies.
“I will not sell (Kinsey), to Hollywood. My children have also made a promise not to sell her. January Magazine reported that we have taken a blood oath and that if they agree, I will return from the grave. She said they are confident I can do it. They’ll have to tell my grandchildren that we don’t sell our grandma.
Jamie Clark, Grafton’s child, reaffirmed the vow of her mother when she announced her death four-years ago. However, Steve Humphrey (author and executive producer for the series), says that he and the family have come to an agreement that times and media have changed.
Since Sue began writing in Hollywood in 1980, television has changed a lot. She was worried that adaptations would diminish her characters and stories from her past experiences. Humphrey stated that television’s power has changed over time. “But, the quality of writing and acting has improved as well as the production values and viewing experience,” Humphrey stated in a statement released by A+E and posted on Grafton’s Facebook page.
A+E Studios was my partner because they understood the importance of Sue’s voice and character. They are committed to helping us bring Sue’s stories to life in a way that will delight both her current and future fans and honor her legacy.
“Together Sue and her children, I believe this decision would be approved by Sue. We would love to see the beloved Alphabet series continue and reach millions more fans.”