Sydney Chandler Will Lead the Cast of “Alien” Television Series from FX

In addition to Fede Alvarez’s upcoming Alien movie, the Alien franchise is headed to the small screen with a TV series in the works over at FX, and THR brings us casting news today.

Sydney Chandler (Don’t Worry Darling) has been set to star in the “Alien” TV series.

The series may premiere sometime next year. Stay tuned.

Creator Noah Hawley‘s take on the Alien franchise has been described as both an “extension and reinvention” of the films that have come before it, with Ellen Ripley not involved.

FX originally noted, “Expect a scary thrill ride set not too far in the future here on Earth.”

At a time when franchises are increasingly beholden to the past, it’s nice to hear that the “Alien” series is moving away not only from existing characters we already know, but also from the familiar setting the Alien films have always taken place in. There’s no telling how well any of this is going to work out, of course, but the project immediately feels fresh and different.

Last we heard, Ridley Scott is expected to be on board as producer.