Finally, an adaptation that sticks. Based on the acclaimed Jonathan Franzen novel of the same name, this project has been a long time coming. First reported to be on the market in late 2024, the limited series is now locked in at Netflix. Here’s who’s behind the camera: Jonathan Franzen will adapt his own novel and executive produce. Meryl Streep executive produces in addition to starring. Cord Jefferson (American Fiction, Watchmen) will executive produce and direct all episodes. Mark Roybal, Paul Lee (for wiip), and Nicole Clemens also executive produce, with Paramount Television Studios producing.
So what’s it about? Here’s the official logline — and it’s already giving dysfunctional family drama in the best way: “A sharply comic portrait of a Midwestern family whose three unmoored adult siblings desperately resist their mother’s wish for one last Christmas together – each undone by the delusional ambitions that were supposed to save them from becoming their parents.” So yes: holiday tension, big dreams, and even bigger disappointments. Streep as the mother? We’re seated.
This novel has a long Hollywood history. The Corrections was originally published in 2001. But getting it to the screen hasn’t been easy: a film version was once in the works but never happened. In 2011, HBO shot a pilot with Chris Cooper, Dianne Wiest, and Ewan McGregor. By 2012, that pilot was not picked up to series. Now, nearly 15 years later, Netflix is making it happen.
And why does Meryl Streep matter here? This is the latest TV role for Streep in recent years — and she’s been on a roll. She appeared in Only Murders in the Building (Seasons 3 & 4), earning both a Golden Globe and Emmy nomination. She also starred in HBO’s Big Little Lies, which also got her Globe and Emmy nods. Oh, and in case you forgot: Streep has 21 Academy Award nominations — more than any actor in history. She’s won for Kramer vs. Kramer, Sophie’s Choice, and The Iron Lady. Widely considered one of the greatest actresses of all time. No big deal.
For those keeping track: Streep is repped by CAA and Gendler, Kelly & Cunningham. Jefferson is repped by CAA, 3 Arts, and Ziffren Brittenham. Franzen is repped by The Gotham Group, Writers House, and attorney Alex Kohner.
Final word: Mark your calendars (okay, we don’t have a release date yet) — but The Corrections with Meryl Streep, directed by Cord Jefferson, on Netflix? This is going to be appointment viewing.
The Pop Blog general news and updates, mostly from press releases and conferences.