‘The Brothers Lionheart’ Series Based On Astrid Lindgren’s Classic In Works At Apple TV From Thomas Vinterberg, Simon Stephens & Media Res

EXCLUSIVE: The Brothers Lionheart, Media Res‘ series adaptation of Astrid Lindgren’s beloved children’s fantasy novel, has landed at Apple TV for development. It is co-created by Oscar-winning filmmaker Thomas Vinterberg (Another Round), who is set to direct all episodes, and Tony and Olivier Award-winning playwright Simon Stephens (Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime).

Adapted from Lindgren’s bestseller, The Brothers Lionheart follows two brothers who share an unconditional love that transcends life itself. Jonathan and Karl Lion journey through the magical realm of Nangijala, where whispered prophecies, terrifying dragons, and a tyrannical emperor force them to become the heroes their bond demands.

Vinterberg and Simons serve as executive producers alongside Media Res’ Michael Ellenberg, Lars Blomgren and Lindsey Springer as well as Johan Palmberg for the Astrid Lindgren estate.

Originally published in 1973, The Brothers Lionheart, from the renowned Swedish author of children’s classics such as Pippi Longstocking, Emil of Lönneberga and Karlsson-on-the-Roof, is a coming of age tale nestled inside an epic fantasy adventure story.

Media Res acquired the rights to the novel in 2023 in a competitive situation and attached Vinterberg and Stephens to adapt it in early 2024.

“The Brothers Lionheart is possibly the most important cultural legacy from my parents’ generation,” Vinterberg said at the time. “It stands as a milestone from my childhood, shining vividly in my memory. The project is a great responsibility and, at the same time, a significant dream-come-true to create the series based on this immense and moving tale – and in that way, help pass it on to my children’s generation.”

This marks the first announced project for Media Res International as well as Media Res’ latest sale to Apple TV where the company has hit The Morning Show, starring Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Aniston, which has been renewed for a fifth season, and the upcoming series The Dealer, starring Jessica Chastain and Adam Driver. The company also produced the streamer’s Pachinko and Extrapolations.