‘Hatching Twitter’ to be turned into a TV series documenting the power and betrayal behind the social network
A TV series is set to be made on the power struggles and friendship betrayals behind one of the world’s largest social networks – Twitter.
The series will be based on New York Times journalist Nick Bilton’s book ‘Hatching Twitter: A True Story of Money, Power, Friendship, and Betrayal,’ which Lionsgate today announced it had optioned the rights to.
Bliton will develop a pilot and screenplay alongside executive producer Allison Shearmur. He said: “I am thrilled to work with Allison Shearmur and Lionsgate to adapt my book about the power, betrayal and billions of dollars that swirl through Silicon Valley. The story of ‘Hatching Twitter’ really speaks to a generation that has searched for friendship through technology and it will be very exciting to see it brought to life on screen.”
Obvious comparisons have been made to The Social Network, a film released in 2010 documenting the early days of Facebook and the legal battles that ensued. However Shearmur has said that this series will provide a “longer view” of the individuals who built the company.
“‘The Social Network’ was a perfect film, and this series will be different,” she explained, “providing a longer view of the work life changes, gamesmanship and personal sacrifices made by a group of individuals who are building a company that will change the way that people communicate.”
Since its release earlier this year the book has been praised for its behind-the-scenes look at how the billion dollar social network came into existence, being named one of the best books of the year by The Economist, Mashable and Gizmodo.
Rumours are already circulating as to who will play Jack Dorsey, – who last year spoke to The Drum about how people view Twitter – Biz Stone, Noah Glass et al.