Full Breakdown
AMC Studios Announces New Adaptations: Bannerman, Point Break Series, and The Grapes of Wrath Anthology
4/30/2026, 5:33:55 AM
New Series Announced at 2026 Upfront
AMC Studios used its 2026 upfront to provide updates on three series: a television adaptation of John Maxim’s Bannerman spy novels, a continuation of the 1991 film *Point Break*, and the inaugural season of the Great American Stories anthology, adapting Steinbeck’s *The Grapes of Wrath*.
Source Material and Adaptation Context
Bannerman adapts Maxim’s five-book series about ex-spy John Bannerman, who leaves work for suburbia before being pulled back. *Point Break* jumps 25 years after the 1991 film, focusing on a heist crew tied to the Ex-Presidents gang. *The Grapes of Wrath* adapts Steinbeck’s 1939 novel as the anthology’s first season.
Creative Team and Production Partnerships
Bannerman is led by Craig Silverstein with Shane Black, Greg Nicotero, Brian Witten producing. *Point Break* is produced by Dave Kalstein with Alcon Entertainment. *The Grapes of Wrath* adaptation is co-written by Rolin Jones and Brett C. Leonard, Mark Johnson, Jill Gillette producing.
Production Schedule
AMC confirmed the Bannerman writers room is active. *Point Break* is slated for production in Australia in 2026, targeting a 2027 premiere. *The Grapes of Wrath* will begin filming by year-end 2026 for a 2027 debut, while *The Vampire Lestat* premieres June 7 on AMC and AMC+.
Official Statements
AMC said Great American Stories anthology will celebrate American spirit with a narrative each season. Network confirmed *The Grapes of Wrath* will start production before year-end for a 2027 launch, and expressed confidence that *Point Break* will begin filming in Australia.
Impact on AMC’s Portfolio
By adapting Maxim’s spy novels, the *Point Break* film, and Steinbeck’s classic—AMC aims to attract audiences while diversifying scripted slate. The anthology format positions the studio to explore varied American narratives, strengthening its competitive edge in premium cable and streaming markets.
Upcoming Milestones
Bannerman’s writers room will transition to production in early 2027. *Point Break* filming in Australia is slated for 2026, with a 2027 release. *The Grapes of Wrath* begins shooting by year-end 2026, targeting a 2027 debut on AMC and AMC+.
Verbatim Quotes
- “RELATED: Dates For Season-Finale Episodes Of Series On ABC, CBS, NBC & Fox The Bannerman series, which spans five books, centers on charismatic ex-spy John Bannerman.” — AMC Studios press release
- “RELATED: 2026 TV Cancellations Photo Gallery: Series Ending This Year & Beyond The story picks up 25 years after the ending of the movie and is centered on a dangerous new heist crew with ties to the notorious Ex-Presidents gang.” — AMC Studios press release
- “will be devoted to a different celebrated work, historical moment or individual narrative celebrating and highlighting the American spirit.” — AMC Studios statement
- “The plan is for The Grapes of Wrath to start production by the end of the year and debut in 2027.” — AMC Studios announcement
- “The project, written and executive produced by Dave Kalstein (Treadstone), has been progressing, and, if all goes well, AMC expects to be in production on Season 1 in Australia later this year for a 2027 premiere.” — AMC Studios update
