HBO has given a straight-to-series order to 'The Chain,' a limited drama from Damon Lindelof based on Adrian McKinty's 2019 novel. The eight-episode series falls under Lindelof's new two-year overall deal with the network. Lindelof will write, executive produce, and serve as showrunner, expanding on the book's mythology of a kidnapping chain.
Damon Lindelof is reuniting with HBO for 'The Chain,' an eight-episode limited series adaptation of Adrian McKinty's 2019 thriller novel. The project received a straight-to-series order under Lindelof's two-year overall deal, signed in September 2025. This marks his first showrunning role since 'Watchmen' in 2019.
The novel's premise involves a parent whose child is kidnapped and must pay a ransom while abducting another child to continue the chain. Lindelof is expanding the mythology for the TV version, though specific plot details remain under wraps. The pilot story is by Lindelof, Carly Wray, and Breannah Gibson, with Lindelof and Wray writing the script.
Lindelof will write and executive produce, alongside Michael Ellenberg and Lindsey Springer of Media Res, and Shane Salerno. McKinty serves as co-executive producer, with HBO and Media Res co-producing.
"From the moment I heard the wild and original premise of Adrian's book, I was shocked, surprised and angry I hadn't thought of it myself," Lindelof said. "I've always wanted to try to adapt a great thriller and this one has all the dark, weird, exhilarating touches that fire up my imagination."
Francesca Orsi, executive vice president of HBO Programming, added, "We are honored by our continued partnership with Damon Lindelof, one of the most singular and distinctive creators of our time. 'The Chain' promises to continue his legacy of dropping us into the pit of the human brain and delivering in ways not only emotionally daring but, ultimately, transformative."
Lindelof's HBO credits include 'The Leftovers,' which aired from 2014 to 2017, and the Emmy-winning 'Watchmen' limited series. He is also involved in the upcoming 'Lanterns' series, set to debut later in 2026. His other notable works encompass 'Lost,' 'Mrs. Davis,' and 'Crossing Jordan' on television, plus films like 'Star Trek,' 'Prometheus,' 'World War Z,' and 'Tomorrowland.'
