J.J. Abrams Producing Scripted Series About the Band U2 for Netflix
A new scripted series is in the works at Netflix about the band U2. J.J. Abrams is his producing under his Bad Robot Productions banner, and Oscar-nominated writer Anthony McCarten (Bohemian Rhapsody) is writing. THR reports that details of U2’s involvement are being kept under wraps, though sources say the band is expected to be involved and sanction the project.
The band U2, fronted by Bono, lead guitarist the Edge, bassist Adam Clayton and drummer Larry Mullen Jr. — “was formed in 1976 out of Dublin, Ireland, and has released 14 studio albums. The frequently political band has sold more than 170 million records worldwide, taking home a record 22 Grammys. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005. With albums including The Joshua Tree, Rattle and Hum, Achtung Baby and, more recently, Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience, the group ranked 22nd on Rolling Stone’s 2010 list of the greatest artists of all time.”
On a personal note, U2 is one of my favorite bands, and back in 2002, I attended an event at UNL in which Bono was a keynote speaker. The next day, I was walking in downtown Lincoln, Nebraska, and I passed a hotel with a tour bus parked on the side entrance. I took a chance, and stood in the snow by this side entrance for an hour, then watched as Bono exited the building. I walked up to him, and told him I loved his music, and asked if I could take his picture. His assistant told me he was busy and had to go. But Bono said, “Of course we can get a picture,” and he handed my camera to his assistant. He put his arm around me, and we smiled. I still look back fondly on that photo and the memory of Bono’s kindness.
All that to say that I’m excited for this series! Are you a fan of the band, or music history in general? Let us know if you’re looking forward to checking it out.