Brandon Sanderson, renowned for his fantasy novels, is seeing increased interest in a potential television adaptation of his lesser-known sci-fi work, Skyward. While adaptations of his more famous series, Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive, are also in the pipeline, Sanderson’s latest updates suggest that Skyward has taken the lead in development.
In a recent blog post titled “State of the Sanderson” for 2025, the author highlighted the progress of various adaptations. Although there are challenges with adaptations of Tress of the Emerald Sea and Snapshot, he reported positive movement on Skyward, indicating that the project has reached a significant stage in its development. Sanderson noted, “Last year, we were hunting showrunners, and we picked them. Last year we were on Step Four, and we technically still are, but we have showrunners, and together we’re writing the pilot.”
With Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive also at Step Four of the adaptation process, they are primarily aimed for film rather than television. In contrast, Skyward is tailored for the small screen, making it a fitting choice for the current trends in streaming.
Current Trends Favor Sci-Fi Adaptations
The Skyward series follows Spensa, a determined young girl striving to become a starfighter while defending her home planet from an alien threat. This narrative aligns well with the growing appetite for sci-fi content among audiences. Recent successes in the genre, including critically acclaimed shows like Severance, Andor, and Fallout, demonstrate a shift in viewer preferences, with many sci-fi series receiving multiple season renewals.
Apple TV has shown a particular interest in expanding its sci-fi offerings, which could bode well for the future of the Skyward adaptation. Sanderson’s awareness of the current entertainment landscape has likely influenced his decision to pursue adaptations that resonate with contemporary viewers.
A Standalone Narrative Amid Complex Universes
One of the significant advantages of adapting Skyward is its independence from Sanderson’s intricate Cosmere universe. Unlike his other works, which interconnect and may overwhelm new readers, Skyward offers a more straightforward narrative. This simplicity makes it easier for newcomers to engage with the story without the need to understand a larger, more complex framework.
As the entertainment industry grapples with audience fatigue from expansive franchises, Skyward presents a compelling opportunity for creators. It allows for a focused adaptation without the burden of sequel pressures or a sprawling narrative. This could provide the creative team the freedom to explore the adaptation’s inherent challenges while concentrating on delivering a captivating story.
With the project progressing steadily, there is optimism surrounding the potential for Skyward to become a successful television series. As interest continues to grow, fans and new audiences alike are eager to see how Sanderson’s vision translates to the screen.
