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Netflix adapting satire Dear White People into original TV series

The crowdfunded satirical drama is to be turned into a ten-episode comedy series

Jacob Stolworthy
Friday 06 May 2016 07:53 EDT
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Netflix's ever-expanding repertoire of original content is set to grow even larger following confirmation it will adapt Dear White People into a brand new television series.

Based on the crowdfunded film from Justin Simien, The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that the writer-director will pen all ten episodes of the series that will follow "a diverse group of students of colour as they navigate a predominantly white Ivy League college."

There is currently no word on whether the film's cast will return; Tyler James Williams (who recently made a bold claim about The Walking Dead 's controversial season six finale), Tessa Thompson (Selma) and Dennis Haysbert (24) all starred in the 2014 original.


Dear White People's success followed Simien's bold move to create a concept trailer for the film using his tax refund which led to a successful crowdfunding venture. The cult comedy went on to become a festival favourite throughout 2014 and has global box office takings of over $4 million.


Following Netflix's successful run of dramas (House of Cards, Bloodline), the streaming service has lately increased its comedy slate with big-hitter Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, the arrival of Ashton Kutcher sitcom The Ranch and last month's announcement of Wet Hot American Summer follow-up, Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later.

Dear White People currently has no release date.

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