In 2017 Hulu announced a live action TV series based on the popular Hitman video game franchise. Creator Derek Kolstad, known for the John Wick movies, joined Adrian Askarieh and Chuck Gordon as executive producers. The plan was to bring Agent 47, a precise and deadly assassin, to television. Fans hoped the show would capture the game’s stealth, humor and globe‑trotting missions.
Why the Project Stalled
During SXSW Kolstad told The Direct that the series is dead in the water. He called the news a dagger to the chest and said no studio wants to buy his screenplay. He explained that while he can write a script, the market does not support a Hitman show right now. The cancellation leaves fans without a new on screen adventure.
Kolstad described his vision as the third man meets three days in the condor. He wanted a mix of classic noir intrigue and modern espionage. The idea was to focus on Agent 47’s mysterious past and his precise approach to eliminating targets. He aimed to blend dark humor with clever set pieces, staying true to the game’s style.
Past Adaptations
Before the TV effort, 20th Century Fox tried twice to turn Hitman into a film. Both attempts missed the core of the games. The movies relied on big scale shootouts in generic locations, ignoring the stealth, international locales, quirky humor and inventive kills that define the franchise. Critics and fans alike felt the films failed to capture the essence of Agent 47.
Impact on the Franchise
The cancellation does not stop IO Interactive from creating new games. The Hitman: World of Assassination trilogy, released from 2016 to 2021, earned high praise and kept the brand strong. The studio also released 007 First Light this May, showing they can handle other spy projects. However, the loss of a TV series means the franchise misses a chance to reach a broader audience.
What Fans Can Expect Next
Even without a TV show, fans can still enjoy new game content and updates. IO Interactive continues to support the Hitman universe with expansions and seasonal events. The community remains active, sharing theories about Agent 47’s past and creating fan videos that capture the game’s signature style.
While the live action series will not appear on Hulu, the conversation around Hitman adaptations stays alive. Fans hope that future streaming platforms might revisit the idea with a fresh approach that respects the game’s core elements.
Source: Dark Horizons
