Hulu is developing a limited series based on Judy Blume’s “Summer Sisters” novel. Though best known for her YA novels, the streamer is adapting her 1998 adult novel.
Liz Tigelaar (Hulu’s “Little Fires Everywhere”) will be the showrunner for the new series, as well as write and executive produce. Blume, whose tween books have been translated into 32 languages and sold over 82 million copies, will also serve as an executive producer.
The novel, set on Martha’s Vineyard, follows the friendship between Vix and Caitliin, who meet as children and stay in touch throughout their lives, despite coping with difficulties in love and marriage.
Blume is known for her “Fudge” series, which was made into an ABC series in the 1990s, as well as “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret,” “Deenie” and “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing.” She was one of the first authors to write tween novels about controversial topics, such as sex and death.
“Little Fires Everywhere,” the eight-episode adaptation of Celeste Ng’s 2017 fiery novel debuts on Hulu March 18 and stars Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington. The story addresses the fate of two women: the seemingly perfect Richardson family and a mother and daughter who rent an apartment from them.
Hulu also announced it has a new president. Disney, which has the controlling stake in Hulu, has named CMO Kelly Campbell president of Hulu. She reports to Kevin Mayer, Chairman, Direct-to-Consumer & International. Total Hulu subscribers, per the company, grew from 17 million in January 2018 to 30.4 million at the end of 2019.