Leonardo DiCaprio developing Right Stuff series

Leonardo DiCaprio will co-executive produce a small screen adaptation of Tom Wolfe’s The Right Stuff for National Geographic as the channel moves further into scripted content.

DiCaprio’s Appian Way Productions will produce in association with Warner Horizon Scripted Television. Jennifer Davisson is also an executive producer along with Will Staples, who writes.

The 1979 book tells the story of the U.S. fighter pilots who tested the early aircraft and rockets that became the foundation of the American space program, and of the first Mercury astronauts. It was adapted into a 1983 feature film starring Ed Harris, Scott Glenn, Dennis Quaid & Sam Shepard (pictured).

“Having already had a rich relationship with Leonardo, Jennifer and their production company Appian Way on Before the Flood, I’m excited to work with them in a scripted capacity,” said Courteney Monroe, CEO, National Geographic Global Networks. “With The Right Stuff, we’re looking at moment in time where the everyday life, the trials and tribulations, of these men was scrutinised in the public. The story gives a peek into the minds and goals of these astronauts seeking exploration and adventure during the space race of the ’50s, making it the perfect story for National Geographic to tell.”

“National Geographic gave Before the Flood an international platform, and we couldn’t think of a better partner to bring The Right Stuff to the world,” added Davisson. “The heroism of these astronauts was rivalled only by the country’s fascination with their story; this series uncovers both the adventure of space exploration and the adventure of being unwittingly thrust into the public eye.”

National Geographic’s first scripted title Genius, scored an Emmy nomination for star Geoffrey Rush.

Source: Variety