Apple TV+’s “Dickinson” debuted to rave reviews last November and was quickly renewed for a second season. Alena Smith, its creator, has just signed a multi-year deal with the streamer.
Smith is expected to develop various TV projects for Apple. She remains executive producer and showrunner of the Peabody-nominated “Dickinson.” It stars Hailee Steinfeld as a young Emily Dickinson — and while it is set in the 19th century, it boasts a modern sensibility that examines gender and society.
“Dickinson” is reported to have finished production on its second season and will return later this year.
Smith’s previous TV credentials include HBO’s “The Newsroom” and Showtime’s “The Affair.” She began her career as a playwright; her published works include “The Bad Guys,” “Plucker” and “The Lacy Project.”
Earlier this week, “Morning Show” showrunner Kerry Ehrin extended her Apple TV+ exclusivity deal. The service also tapped BBC’s factual controller Alison Kirkham to head development of Apple’s European unscripted series, based in the UK. At the BBC, Kirkham led award-winning documentary productions, including “Planet Earth II” and “Blue Planet II.”
Apple TV+ has signed various talent to its creative roster, including Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sharon Horgan, Oprah Winfrey and Justin Lin.