A new spin-off of the beloved series Desperate Housewives is currently in the early stages of development. The show, tentatively titled Wisteria Lane, is being produced by Disney’s Onyx Collective and 20th Television and is set to stream on Hulu.
Desperate Housewives: A Reimagining
This reimagining of the original series will center on a new group of five female friends, described as “frenemies,” residing on the seemingly perfect suburban cul-de-sac of Wisteria Lane. Similar to its predecessor, the new show is expected to blend dark comedy, mystery, and soapy drama, delving into the secrets and lies hidden beneath the polished facades of their lives in the age of social media. The premise suggests a modern take on the themes explored in Desperate Housewives, examining how technology and online personas add new layers to suburban secrets and neighborly relationships.
The project is being written and executive produced by Natalie Chaidez, known for her work on The Flight Attendant and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. Kerry Washington’s production company, Simpson Street, is also executive producing, with Washington herself potentially appearing on screen, although this has not been confirmed.
Notably, Marc Cherry, the creator and executive producer of the original Desperate Housewives, is currently not officially involved in this new iteration. However, reports indicate that he is aware of the project and could potentially join in a future capacity. While none of the original cast members are expected to be part of this new series, some, like Eva Longoria and Teri Hatcher, have previously expressed interest in returning to the Desperate Housewives universe in some form.
Wisteria Lane: Early Developments
The development of Wisteria Lane is still in its early stages, with no casting announcements or premiere date set yet. However, the fact that the iconic Wisteria Lane set still exists on the Universal backlot offers a tangible connection to the original series.
In the meantime, Marc Cherry himself has also publicly discussed potential ideas for a Desperate Housewives spin-off, including the possibility of a prequel series set in the 1960s. He has expressed a deep fondness for the setting of Wisteria Lane and its potential for storytelling across different eras. However, this concept from Cherry appears to be separate from the Wisteria Lane project currently in development at Onyx Collective.
The upcoming Wisteria Lane aims to capture the essence of the original show for a new generation while exploring contemporary issues and dynamics within a seemingly idyllic suburban setting. Fans of Desperate Housewives can anticipate a blend of the familiar and the new, with a focus on the secrets and complexities that lie beneath the surface of seemingly perfect lives.
A Broader Trend
The decision to revisit the world of Desperate Housewives reflects a broader trend in television of reviving and reimagining successful franchises for new audiences. The original series, which aired for eight seasons from 2004 to 2012, garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base for its witty writing, compelling characters, and engaging blend of genres. Its exploration of female friendships, social expectations, and the hidden dramas of suburban life resonated with viewers worldwide.
Wisteria Lane faces the challenge of both honoring the legacy of its predecessor and establishing its own identity. The shift to a streaming platform like Hulu offers opportunities for different storytelling approaches and potentially a more serialized narrative structure. The focus on the impact of social media on suburban life introduces a contemporary element that could provide fresh storylines and explore how technology amplifies or alters the dynamics of secrets and relationships.
Natalie Chaidez’s involvement as writer and executive producer brings experience in crafting complex female characters and navigating suspenseful narratives. Kerry Washington’s production company adds further creative weight to the project, suggesting a commitment to strong storytelling and potentially diverse perspectives.
Ultimately, the success of Wisteria Lane will depend on its ability to capture the spirit of the original series- its blend of humor, mystery, and relatable human drama- while offering a fresh perspective and engaging storylines that resonate with a contemporary audience. The continued existence of the iconic Wisteria Lane set serves as a reminder of the rich history of this fictional neighborhood and the enduring appeal of its stories. Fans eager to see how this new chapter unfolds will watch the development process closely.
