Exclusive: Actors' Strike Threatens to Derail Highly-Anticipated New Alien TV Show

The new FX Alien TV show is expected to face significant disruptions due to an impending actors' strike, according to a report. Hollywood, already grappling with major disruptions caused by the ongoing writers' strike, now has to prepare for another setback as unionized actors have plans to join picket lines amidst stalled negotiations with studios and streamers. Talks that reportedly broke down on Wednesday have led to a strike vote scheduled for Thursday, putting the entertainment industry on the verge of a rare double labor walk-out. While productions in North America have already been heavily impacted by the writers' strike, overseas work that was unaffected will now face the same challenges as SAG-AFTRA actors stand in solidarity with the writers. One highly-anticipated TV production, Noah Hawley's long-delayed Alien universe TV show, which is about to commence filming overseas, may be particularly affected by the actors' strike. As revealed by Variety, the show is currently in the pre-production stage and has occupied a significant amount of studio space in Thailand. However, since some cast members, including two main leads, belong to SAG-AFTRA and/or Equity, the show will have to adjust its shooting schedule to accommodate their absence if the strike proceeds as planned. Sydney Chandler was recently announced as the lead actress for Alien the TV show, following the franchise's tradition of featuring strong female characters.

Hawley’s Alien Will Reinvent The Franchise – While Staying True To The Original Movies

When FX approached me about adapting the now well-established Alien franchise, I had to consider what initially captivated me about the original film and if I could evoke that same feeling for a new audience. It's important to acknowledge that the impact of experiencing Alien for the first time can never be replicated, and after six movies, there's a risk of losing the mystery and intrigue associated with the iconic creature. My goal is to reintroduce the franchise in a way that revitalizes its mystique and engages a modern audience, ensuring that even my 15-year-old would find it captivating without feeling bored with a slower pace.

Echoing Hawley’s comments on the need to create an experience that matches the excitement of watching the original Alien, FX chairman John Landgraf discussed Noah Hawley's unique approach to the franchise during the 2022 TCA Tour:

As a major fan of both Alien and Aliens, I vividly recall watching these films in the theater and being astounded by their originality and the unexpected elements they brought to the table. In a similar vein to his work on Fargo, Noah decided to deviate from utilizing Ripley or any other character from the Alien series, apart from the xenomorph itself. Instead, he delved deep into the essence of what made the franchise so outstanding and enduring from the start. His goal was to recreate that feeling of walking into a theater and being taken by surprise, evoking the same awe and intrigue experienced while watching those initial two movies.

The release date for Hawley's Alien TV show on FX is still unknown, and if the actors' strike persists, it might take a considerable amount of time before filming can even begin. This is disappointing for fans anticipating Hawley's rendition of the Alien franchise, especially considering the show's previous setbacks due to COVID.