Naoise Dolan’s debut novel optioned by Black Bear Television

Black Bear (THE IMITATION GAME, MUDBOUND) has optioned the rights to EXCITING TIMES by Naoise Dolan.

Naoise’s debut novel, a Sunday Times and Irish Times bestseller which will publish in the US on 2 June, explores the complex relationships of a newly arrived Irish expat in Hong Kong.

Black Bear’s TV division will develop and produce the adaptation as a TV series. Black Bear’s president and CEO Teddy Schwarzman, Ben Stillman, Michael Heimler and Naoise herself will executive produce.

Naoise said: “I think my love of dialogue is clear from the book, so I’m thrilled to partner with Black Bear to bring the characters to a TV audience, and even more so to be involved as an executive producer. Black Bear is discerning, independent-minded and very engaged with the novel, so it will be a privilege to work together on this project.”

Schwarzman added: “We immediately fell in love with Naoise’s honest, wry and intelligent prose, and her ability to depict remarkably complex yet utterly relatable characters. We believe Naoise is an extraordinary voice, with a huge future ahead of her, and Black Bear is honored to play a part in bringing her rich material to life.”

DHA’s Nicky Lund has brokered the deal on behalf of Naoise.