Courtesy of Bantam Classics
Phillip Iscove will tackle the drama inspired by H.G. Wells' book.
The creator of Sleepy Hollow is taking on another historical legend for the small screen.
CBS has handed out a script commitment to Moreau, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
Inspired by the H.G. Wells book The Island of Dr. Moreau, the drama centers on the fiercely intelligent and fearless Dr. Katherine Moreau as she expands the boundaries of medicine through bold and revolutionary scientific experimentation and treatments in her privately funded island hospital.
Sleepy Hollow creator Phillip Iscove will pen the script and executive produce the CBS Television Studios drama alongside the Kennedy/Marshall Co.'s Frank Marshall and Robert Zotnowski.
Wells sci-fi classic was published in 1896 and centered on a man shipwrecked on the island home of Doctor Moreau, who creates human-like hybrid beings from animals via the controversial practice of vivisection.
The novel more recently has been referenced on BBC America's clone drama Orphan Black after being adapted for the big screen in 1932 (with Bela Lugosi), 1977 (with Burt Lancaster) and 1996 (with Marlon Brandon and Val Kilmer), among other takes (including a Simpsons Halloween special).
Moreau comes after Iscove found success with Fox's Sleepy Hollow, a modern-day supernatural thriller based on the legend.
The CBS drama adds a twist to the story by updating it to the present day with a female lead. It also comes as medical dramas continue to be in high demand on broadcast networks, with CBS set to bow Code Black in the fall and NBC targeting Chicago Med, among others.
Iscove is represented by UTA, the Gotham Group and attorney Bruce Gellman; Kennedy/Marshall is with CAA and attorney Alan Hergott.
TV Development
