Starz said it has greenlit two more editions of original seris Outlander, the Scottish time-travel drama based on the novels of Diana Gabaldon. "Book Three" will draw on "Voyager," the third book in the series, and "Book Four" will be based on "Drums of Autumn," the fourth book. Gabaldon has written eight of the novels so far.
This is the first multi-book pickup by Starz for Outlander, produced with Sony Pictures Television and executive produced by Ronald D. Moore.
Said Starz CEO Chris Albrecht in a release: “Outlander is like nothing seen before on television. From its depiction of a truly powerful female lead character, to the devastating decimation of the Highlander way of life, to what is a rarely seen genuine and timeless love story, it is a show that not only transports the viewer, but inspires the passion and admiration of its fans. On this 25th anniversary of the publication of the first book in the U.S., we are thrilled and honored to be able to continue the story that began with author Diana Gabaldon, and is brought to life by the incredibly talented Ronald D. Moore. There are no better storytellers for Outlander than this team, both in front and behind the camera.”
Also quoted were Jamie Erlicht and Zack Van Amburg , Presidents, U.S. Programming and Production, Sony Pictures Television: “The world of Jamie and Claire is expansive and emotionally complex. The audience has rewarded Outlander with their praise and loyalty, and we know we will deliver the best seasons yet in the years ahead. Starz has been an incredible partner and has truly helped shape this into one of the most iconic premiere series on the air today.”
Starz is seven episodes into its second Outlander season, ranking second across cable networks among women ages 18 and up, the network said, citing Nielsen rankings. Season two's opening episode set Starz viewing records for an original series season premiere, per the network.
The Starz news came at about the same time that rival premium channel Showtime announced a three-season renewal for hit drama series Homeland.
