Peacock has ordered a television adaptation of Kennedy Ryan’s best-selling romance novel “Before I Let Go,” bringing the first book in her “Skyland” series to the screen after more than three years in development.
Universal Global Television and Universal Television, divisions of Universal Studio Group, are producing the drama. Ryan and filmmaker Malcolm D. Lee created the series and co-wrote the pilot, with Lee also set to direct.
The story centers on Yasmen and Josiah Wade, a married couple whose relationship collapses after back-to-back losses. Divorce and shared custody follow, but as Yasmen begins rebuilding her life, the former spouses remain emotionally connected. Their proximity forces them to confront old wounds and decide whether their relationship is truly over or they can find their way back to each other.
Attica Locke and Tembi Locke will serve as writers, executive producers, and showrunners. The sisters previously worked together on Netflix’s “From Scratch,” which was adapted from Tembi Locke’s memoir.
“These characters have meant so much to so many readers,” Ryan said following the announcement. “Getting the chance to bring the ‘Skyland’ series to life onscreen is a dream come true. These characters have meant so much to so many readers, and none of this would be possible without the people who have supported my work for years.”
Lee said he became invested in the characters after reading Ryan’s “Skyland” series and praised the experience of developing the pilot with the author. Attica and Tembi Locke said the project fits their interest in bringing stories about love, family, and healing to television.
The adaptation had been in development at Peacock since 2023. In April, Ryan signed a first-look deal with Universal Studio Group to develop and produce television projects through her Scribe Chick Media banner.
Published in 2022, “Before I Let Go” launched Ryan’s “Skyland” series. Publishers Weekly reported in March 2024 that the book had sold 111,000 print copies since its release. The series continued with “This Could Be Us” and “Can’t Get Enough.”
Ryan and Lee will executive produce alongside Dominique Telson for Blackmaled, Mike Jackson and John Legend for Get Lifted Film Co., and Debra Martin Chase for Martin Chase Productions.
The announcement did not include casting or a premiere date.
