There have been rumblings of Van Helsing returning to the big screen as part of Universal’s Movie Monster Cinematic Universe, but the iconic character will actually hit the small screen well before that comes to pass. Well, sort of. A new thirteen part TV series is in the works at Syfy which is set to focus on one of the vampire hunting, Dracula hating hero’s descendants!
In Van Helsing, the lead will be Vanessa Helsing, the next in a lineage of warriors who must lead mankind against a world controlled by vampires. Here’s the twist though. Things will take an apocalyptic turn when Vanessa is resurrected five years in the future, she learns vampires have taken over the world and that she possesses unique power over them. She is essentially humanity’s last hope to lead an offensive to take back what has been lost.
Neil LaBute (Hell on Wheels) is set to serve as showrunner, and he’ll also executive produce alongside a group who have all worked on the critically acclaimed Fargo television series.
“I am extremely excited to be working with Syfy and Nomadic Pictures to create a unique, character-driven action series that will move the traditional vampire tropes into bold and unexpected new territories” LaBute said in a statement announcing the news. “This is a wonderful chance for us to forge great stories and unforgettable characters and throw them into a world where the stakes – both dramatic and personal – are tremendously high.”
“Van Helsing represents a new mythology in sci-fi by challenging traditional vampire rules,” added producer Chad Oakes, co-chairman of Nomadic Pictures. “The series is unique in exploring a world completely dominated by vampires, while the human characters have to learn the importance of working together to ensure their survival. Mike and I are thrilled to team up once again with the talented Neil LaBute to deliver an amazing series.”
There’s no denying that this is a very interesting premise, but Syfy? They’re not exactly known for producing quality content! Still, with production expected to begin early next year, we should get some casting news on this soon and that should make it clear whether or not it’s going to be worth watching. Who would you like to see take on this female Van Helsing?
