Syfy has given a 13-episode series order to Van Helsing, an adaptation on the famous literary character. Neil LaBute is set to write the drama, with an airdate on the network in Fall 2016.
In this new interpretation of the material, the central character is a female, Vanessa Helsing, the next in a lineage of warriors who must lead mankind against a world controlled by vampires. 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.
LaBute will executive produce with Simon Barry, Evan Tyler, Dave Brown, Daniel March, Chad Oakes and Mike Frisley. Nomadic Pictures will produce. Production will begin in January in Vancouver.
"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," said LaBute in a statement. "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," said 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."
"Van Helsing reimagines a classic story in a compelling new way, featuring a bold and complex heroine," said Chris Regina, Senior Vice President of Program Strategy, Syfy. "This high octane acquired original series will be a terrific addition to our lineup next year."
