Kristen Stewart is set to make her TV series debut by starring as Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, in the upcoming limited series “The Challenger.” This highly anticipated project is nearing a deal with Amazon MGM Studios and involves some big names in the entertainment industry.
The Production Team
Kyra Sedgwick’s Big Swing Productions is behind the development of the series, collaborating with Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Partners and Kristen Stewart’s Nevermind production label. Maggie Cohn, known for her work on “American Crime Story” and “Narcos: Mexico,” will serve as the writer and showrunner for the series.
The Story of Sally Ride
“The Challenger” will focus on Sally Ride’s journey as an astronaut and physicist, highlighting her achievements as the first American woman to fly in space. Ride was part of the 1978 NASA astronaut class, which was notable for its diversity, moving away from the all-white male crews of the past. Ride’s accomplishments didn’t stop with her spaceflight; she also played a critical role in investigating the tragic Challenger disaster in 1986, identifying the issues with the O-rings that led to the explosion.
A New Perspective on the Space Race
The series is based on Meredith E. Bagby’s book “The New Guys,” which details the experiences of a diverse group of astronauts recruited by NASA in the 1970s. This group included the first Black and Asian American astronauts, as well as the first married couple to join the space program. Their story is seen as a modern successor to Tom Wolfe’s “The Right Stuff,” capturing the cultural shifts and challenges within NASA during that era.
Kristen Stewart’s Involvement
Kristen Stewart’s passion for the project has been a driving force behind its development. Known for her versatile acting range, Stewart’s involvement in both acting and producing has been pivotal in securing the series deal. Kyra Sedgwick praised Stewart’s commitment, noting that her enthusiasm and eloquence during pitch meetings were crucial in making the project competitive in a tough market.
Launching a New Vision
The series aims to be ready around the anniversary of the Challenger disaster, which occurred on January 28, 1986. By bringing on board Steven Spielberg, the team hopes to tell an inspiring story that will resonate with a new generation of space enthusiasts. The project has been a labor of love for Sedgwick, Bagby, and Stadler since 2017, with Sedgwick expressing her excitement about finally bringing this story to the screen.
Conclusion
“The Challenger” promises to be a compelling series that not only chronicles Sally Ride’s groundbreaking achievements but also sheds light on the diverse group of astronauts who helped shape NASA’s history. With a talented team of producers and Kristen Stewart’s dedication, the series is poised to be a significant addition to television.
Stay tuned for more updates on “The Challenger” and other exciting projects here on Trevor Decker News.
