After years of silence, the Underworld franchise is poised for a thrilling comeback, this time on the small screen. Director Len Wiseman, the creative force behind the action-horror series, recently confirmed that an Underworld TV series is actively in development. Speaking with ComicBook during a press tour for Ballerina: From the World of John Wick, Wiseman shared an exciting update: “We’re doing a TV series, and it’s awesome.” With two years of development already invested, the project is gaining momentum, promising to expand the vampire-Lycan war in a darker, more grounded tone that diverges from the films’ comic-book flair.
A New Tone for Underworld
Wiseman’s vision for the Underworld TV series marks a significant departure from the franchise’s cinematic roots. “The series will be a pretty big departure from the films,” he previously told Collider. “I don’t want to say it’s more adult, but it’s definitely less comic book in its tone and character.” This shift suggests a grittier, more mature exploration of the supernatural conflict that has defined the series since 2003. Fans can expect a deeper dive into the lore of vampires and Lycans, with a focus on complex character arcs and a moodier, less stylized aesthetic, all set against the franchise’s signature gothic backdrop.
The Underworld Legacy
Since its debut in 2003, Underworld has carved a unique niche in the action-horror genre, blending high-octane combat with a brooding, leather-clad aesthetic. The original film introduced Selene (Kate Beckinsale), a vampire “Death Dealer” who hunts Lycans with twin pistols and a steely resolve. Set in a rain-soaked, gothic world, the story of the eternal war between vampires and Lycans captivated audiences, spawning a franchise that includes five films and a global box office haul of over $540 million. Wiseman directed the first two entries, Underworld and Underworld: Evolution, which explored the Corvinus bloodline and the origins of the supernatural feud. He later served as a producer and writer for Rise of the Lycans and Awakening, the latter grossing over $160 million, making it the series’ biggest commercial success.
Why Television Suits Underworld
The move to television offers Underworld a chance to expand its sprawling mythology in ways the films couldn’t. The longer format allows for richer character development, particularly for Selene, whose journey from vengeance-driven warrior to conflicted protector has been a cornerstone of the series. The TV series could explore untapped corners of the vampire-Lycan conflict, such as the ancient history of the Corvinus clan or the political dynamics within vampire covens and Lycan packs. New characters may join the fray, introducing fresh perspectives to a war that has raged for centuries. With Wiseman’s hands-on involvement, the series is poised to retain the franchise’s brutal beauty while appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers.
Wiseman’s Multitasking and Development Timeline
Wiseman’s update comes as he wraps post-production on Ballerina, a John Wick spin-off, which has occupied much of his time over the past two years. “I’ve been spending the last two years or so [on the Underworld series],” he told ComicBook, noting that he’s now gaining bandwidth to focus on the TV project. While no network or platform has been officially confirmed, earlier reports from 2016 linked the series to Lakeshore Entertainment, with speculation pointing to Netflix or another streaming giant as a potential home. The project’s two-year development period indicates significant progress, likely including scripts, casting discussions, and world-building, though Wiseman remained tight-lipped about specifics.
What’s Next for Fans
While no release date or casting details have been announced, Wiseman’s enthusiasm suggests the Underworld TV series is on a promising trajectory. Fans are eager to learn whether Kate Beckinsale will reprise her iconic role as Selene, though the series’ new tone might introduce a younger cast or shift focus to other characters within the universe. The franchise’s gothic aesthetic and action-heavy DNA make it a natural fit for streaming audiences, especially in the wake of successful supernatural series like The Witcher and Castlevania. As Wiseman shifts his focus post-Ballerina, expect more updates in 2026, potentially including a platform announcement or first-look details. For now, the vampire-Lycan war is heating up, and Underworld is ready to sink its fangs into a new era.
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