The Evolution of Harlan Coben’s Novels into Hit TV Series
Harlan Coben, a bestselling author renowned for his gripping novels, is taking his storytelling to new heights. Partnering with three long-term associates—Nicola Shindler, Richard Fee, and Danny Brocklehurst—Coben is expertly transitioning his narratives from written form in the U.S. to captivating series in the U.K. Their collaborative efforts culminated in the acclaimed Netflix series, Fool Me Once, which premiered in 2024. Starring Michelle Keegan and Richard Armitage, the show has become a landmark success for the streaming service, amassing 12 billion viewing minutes, making it Netflix’s top show of the year.
A Collaborative Dynamic
Affectionately naming their quartet “The Core Four,”Coben emphasizes the importance of teamwork during a recent Zoom interview with The Hollywood Reporter. As he shares his sentiments, he expresses gratitude for his creative partners, mentioning Shindler as “the captain of this ship.” Shindler, the CEO of Quay Street Productions (part of ITV Studios), alongside executive producer Richard Fee and writer Danny Brocklehurst, brings invaluable experience to the table. “We’ve been collaborating for nearly 11 years, and it’s been a tremendous honor,” Coben reflects.
Diving into the Adaptation Process
Shindler elaborates on their approach to adapting Coben’s novels into compelling television, stating, “We’re not concerned about appealing solely to fans of the books; our aim is to tell a brilliant story that captivates everyone.” This philosophy seeks to ensure each episode is not only engaging but also maintains a consistent momentum that invites viewers to keep watching.
Collaboration is key, as Coben and Brocklehurst work closely to translate the internal thoughts and complexities of characters from page to screen. Shindler notes, “We focus on what elements are essential for television that might not be present in the book. Transforming written characters into visual ones requires a balance of exploring character depth while maintaining audience interest.”
Creative Freedom and Unique Storytelling
One of the team’s defining tenets is their approach to fidelity. Coben insists, “Our priority is creating an excellent TV show. The book offers a different experience, and our goal is to make both iterations enjoyable.” As an example, he discusses the transformation of the titular character in The Stranger from a male to a female, a decision made to enhance the visual dynamics of the story.
The Importance of Casting
Equally important to the narrative is casting—an area managed by their casting director, Orla Maxwell. Shindler asserts, “We aim to find actors who not only fit the role but also elevate the material.” Returning faces include James Nesbitt and Richard Armitage, both of whom have proven to resonate well with Coben’s narrative style. The casting team strives to incorporate strong British talent, ensuring that the cultural essence of the characters is well represented.
For the role of Welsh actress Ruth Jones, Coben emphasized the significance of thorough research and showreels. “It’s crucial to explore an actor’s previous work to gauge their suitability for the role,” he notes. The team also recognizes the value in casting seasoned comedians for dramatic roles, as they often bring an innate empathy to their characters, making them relatable.
Universal Themes and Global Reach
Though Coben’s narratives initially unfold in the U.S., their themes—familial bonds, relational dynamics, and universal love—are easily transferable to a U.K. setting. This adaptability, according to Brocklehurst, allows for stories like The Stranger to resonate due to shared cultural elements between the two nations. “Americans and Brits may differ in cultural specifics, but the core themes remain universal,” he remarks.
A Focus on Entertainment
Both Coben and his team emphasize the need for their shows to serve as an entertaining escape in today’s complex landscape. With over 300 million Netflix subscribers globally, Coben’s stories reach a wide audience, allowing them to connect through the emotional core present in their narratives. “We aim for our work to not only attract attention but also engage the viewer’s heart,”he adds.
A Bright Future for The Core Four
The Core Four’s synergy shines through in their productions, with each project—including their upcoming releases, Lazarus on Amazon Prime and Run Away on Netflix—further showcasing their commitment to quality storytelling. They express little desire to alter their formula, as their collaborative spirit fuels creativity.
Coben summarizes their shared ethos succinctly: “We have no egos and enjoy each other’s company. Our vision is unified, and we take pride in producing content that is not only successful but meaningful.”