Variety exclusively announces that Hallmark is adapting “The Chicken Sisters,” the bestselling 2020 novel by KJ Dell’Antonia and a Reese’s Book Club selection, into a new original television series.
Annie Mebane has been announced as the executive producer and showrunner for the upcoming eight-episode series. Currently in production, the series is scheduled to air later this year. The talented cast includes Schuyler Fisk, Genevieve Angelson, Lea Thompson, and Wendie Malick.
The Hallmark Channel is currently airing two series: “When Calls the Heart,” which is currently in its 10th season, and “The Way Home,” which is about to start production on Season 3.
“The Chicken Sisters” is a captivating family drama filled with southern charm and a touch of romance. It takes place in the charming fictional town of Merinac, where a long-standing feud between two rival fried chicken restaurants, Mimi’s and Frannie’s, has caused a rift between their founders’ families and divided the locals. The story takes an interesting turn when a renowned cooking show arrives in town, adding more complexity to the situation as hidden secrets are revealed and sparks of passion fly.
Lisa Hamilton Daly, EVP of programming at Hallmark Media, expressed her excitement and admiration for Annie Mebane’s vision for “The Chicken Sisters.” Mebane’s fresh take on the fried chicken feud story and her enthusiasm captivated the team from the start. Daly also praised the dream cast, including Schuyler, Genevieve, Lea, and Wendie, who are perfectly suited to bring this witty and heartfelt tale to life. Daly is confident that each episode will leave viewers wanting more and more.
Mebane expresses her admiration for the characters in “The Chicken Sisters” by KJ Dell’Antonia, stating that she fell in love with them. The show, on the surface, revolves around two competing restaurants on a reality show, but it delves deeper into the idea of inherited baggage and the process of unraveling it. Mebane finds great joy in telling this story that spans multiple generations and focuses on women’s experiences, including their frustrations, desires, and ultimately, their healing. With an exceptional cast in place, the team is excited to introduce viewers to the world of Merinac.
“The Chicken Sisters” is a production by MarVista Entertainment in collaboration with Lighthouse Pictures and Busy B Entertainment, under the umbrella of Fox Entertainment. The international distribution will be handled by Fox Entertainment Global. The executive producers of this project include Mebane, Bradley Gardner, Larry Grimaldi, Ani Kevork, Hannah Pillemer, Fernando Szew, Shawn Williamson, and Jamie Goehring.