Netflix Producer Acquires Rights to Adapt Duke Nukem into a Live-Action Series
Anime Producer Adi Shankar Secures Rights to Classic Video Game Duke Nukem
Adi Shankar, renowned for producing popular anime adaptations such as Netflix’s Devil May Cry and Castlevania, has announced that he has purchased the rights to adapt the legendary first-person shooter Duke Nukem into a live-action series.
Expanding His Portfolio with a New Video Game Adaptation
In an exclusive interview with Esquire, Shankar revealed that while he remains committed to continuing his work on Devil May Cry, he is also planning a new project based on Duke Nukem. He clarified that this isn’t about creating a new game but about developing a television adaptation. “I’ve acquired the rights from Gearbox, not to the game itself but to bring Duke Nukem to the screen,” he explained.
Vision for the Iconic Character
Shankar shared his thoughts on how he envisions the character of Duke Nukem. He described him as a rebellious and anti-establishment figure who has yet to be fully embraced by mainstream media. According to Shankar, many have attempted to turn Duke Nukem into a corporate-friendly brand, but those efforts have failed to capture his true essence. “Duke Nukem is a symbol of defiance, and I refuse to let anyone dictate how he should be portrayed,” he stated.
Future Projects and Industry Insights
Previously, Shankar hinted at his interest in exploring other video game franchises for potential adaptations. Meanwhile, fans of his work eagerly await updates on his ongoing Devil May Cry series. The creative visionary also mentioned that Netflix’s Bloodborne and Berserk are among the projects in development interest, with hopes that one of these will soon hit screens.
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Alex "Pixel" Petrov
Gaming journalist & industry insider. Covers the latest game releases, updates, and behind-the-scenes dev stories. Knows every Easter egg, patch note, and upcoming title worth hyping. Always gaming, always analyzing.