Peacock Develops Scripted Series Adaptation of "Clue"

Peacock has secured a scripted adaptation of the classic murder mystery board game "Clue," with development led by writer and executive producer Dana Fox and director Nicholas Stoller. The project, produced by Sony Pictures Television and Hasbro Entertainment, was pitched to various platforms before ultimately landing at Peacock. The adaptation is designed to appeal to audiences who enjoyed similar murder mystery formats, such as Rian Johnson's "Knives Out" and the now-canceled "Poker Face."

Deadline HollywoodThe Wrap‘Clue’ Series from ‘Wicked’ Writer & ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ Director Lands at Peacock

The series will feature a modern twist on the iconic characters from the game, including Mrs. Peacock, Professor Plum, Miss Scarlett, Mrs. White, Mr. Green, and Colonel Mustard. The narrative centers around a group of strangers invited to an eccentric billionaire's murder mystery night, where they must unravel the mystery of who committed the murder, with what weapon, and in which room. The stakes are heightened as the characters discover that nothing is as it seems.

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Dana Fox, known for her work on "Wicked" and "Cruella," will serve as the showrunner and writer. Nicholas Stoller, recognized for directing "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and "Neighbors," will direct and executive produce the series. They will be joined by executive producers Gabriel Marano from Hasbro Entertainment, Margy Love from Fox's company Foxy, Inc., and Conor Welch from Stoller Global Solutions. Both Fox and Stoller have recently extended their overall deals with Sony Pictures Television.

‘Clue’ Series from ‘Wicked’ Writer & ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ Director Lands at Peacock

Since its launch in 1949, "Clue" has sold over 150 million copies, making it one of the most popular board games in history. The game has previously been adapted into a 1985 film directed by Jonathan Lynn, which starred Tim Curry and became a cult classic. Additionally, Netflix has announced an unscripted reality competition series based on "Clue," further expanding the franchise's presence in contemporary media.

‘Clue’ Series from ‘Wicked’ Writer & ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ Director Lands at Peacock

Peacock has categorized the new series as a drama, emphasizing its upbeat murder mystery theme. The adaptation is part of a broader strategy by Sony Pictures Television to leverage the film and television rights acquired from Hasbro in 2024. The collaboration aims to create engaging content that resonates with fans of the original game while attracting new viewers.

Deadline Hollywood

While the adaptation has garnered interest, some critics may question the necessity of reimagining a well-known property, particularly given the mixed reception of previous adaptations. The challenge lies in balancing nostalgia for the original game with innovative storytelling that appeals to modern audiences.

‘Clue’ Series from ‘Wicked’ Writer & ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ Director Lands at Peacock

• “When a group of strangers are invited to an eccentric billionaire’s murder mystery night to solve the famous questions — who, where and with what — they quickly discover that nothing is what it seems to be, and the stakes are even higher than life or death.” — Dana Fox, Writer/Executive Producer

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• “Clue has sold more than 150 million copies since its launch in 1949.” — Industry Overview

‘Clue’ Series from ‘Wicked’ Writer & ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ Director Lands at Peacock

The "Clue" series represents a significant addition to Peacock's content lineup, aiming to capture the intrigue and humor of the original game while appealing to contemporary viewers.

The Wrap