Carolyn Huynh’s debut novel, ‘The Fortunes of Jaded Women,’ has been making waves in the literary world, and now it is set to transition to the small screen as a TV series. Universal International Studios (UIS)-owned Heyday Television, in collaboration with Universal Television, has acquired the rights to the novel in what has been described as a highly competitive situation. This exciting development will bring Huynh’s poignant story to a wider audience through the television medium.
The novel delves into the impact of tradition and superstition on modern life, following the journey of the Duong women who have been cursed by a fearsome Vietnamese witch. The story traces the lineage of these women, exploring themes of love and happiness across generations. The plot revolves around Mai Nguyen, a descendant of the cursed family, who seeks guidance from Auntie Hua, a psychic in Hawaii. Auntie Hua’s prediction sets the stage for a series of events that will test the bonds between mothers, daughters, aunts, and cousins, bringing them together in unexpected ways.
Carolyn Huynh, the Los Angeles-based writer behind ‘The Fortunes of Jaded Women,’ is known for her compelling portrayal of complex Asian women. In addition to this debut novel, she has another work, ‘The Family Recipe,’ scheduled for release in 2025. Huynh expressed her excitement about the adaptation, highlighting the collaboration with Heyday Television, Universal International Studios, Bekah Brunstetter, and Alan Yang. This partnership aims to give life to the Vietnamese women in the story and pay tribute to the cultural heritage of Little Saigon and Orange County.
Alan Yang, known for his work on ‘Master of None’ and ‘Parks and Recreation,’ shared his enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the novel’s unique perspective on Vietnam and the Vietnamese diaspora. The acquisition of ‘The Fortunes of Jaded Women’ marks Heyday Television’s second novel pick-up in recent months, reflecting the company’s commitment to compelling storytelling. Bekah Brunstetter, an accomplished writer and producer, brings her expertise from projects like ‘This is Us’ and ‘Maid’ to the adaptation process, ensuring that the characters are portrayed with depth and authenticity.
The adaptation of ‘The Fortunes of Jaded Women’ is part of a larger trend in the entertainment industry, where books are increasingly being adapted for television. Heyday Television’s parent company, UIS, has been particularly active in acquiring literary properties for screen adaptation. This shift highlights the enduring appeal of storytelling and the power of books to captivate audiences across different mediums.
Huynh, Yang, and Brunstetter are each represented by top agencies in the industry, signaling their standing as accomplished creatives. As they embark on this new venture together, they are joined by a team of talented professionals who will help bring ‘The Fortunes of Jaded Women’ to life on television. With a combination of diverse perspectives and storytelling expertise, the team behind the adaptation is poised to deliver a compelling and engaging series that resonates with viewers.
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, adaptations like ‘The Fortunes of Jaded Women’ offer a fresh perspective on storytelling and the ways in which narratives can be translated across different mediums. Through collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to honoring the source material, this adaptation promises to be a unique and engaging addition to the television landscape.