New James Patterson Adaptation Will Be Led by Academy Award Winner on Max

An exciting update for both television and book enthusiasts has emerged, as Academy Award-winning actress Renée Zellweger has been confirmed to lead the new adaptation of James Patterson and Mike Lupica’s novel, 12 Months to Live. According to Variety, Max is planning to develop it into a series, and considering the premise of Patterson’s crime thriller, it will be a riveting addition to the genre.

12 Months to Live is the first installment in the Jane Smith series. The novel introduces us to a tough-as-nails criminal defense attorney named Jane Smith, who finds herself defending a high-profile client accused of a triple homicide. As her own life gets embroiled in a series of murders, she receives a terminal diagnosis stating she only has twelve months to live. But Patterson’s books do not stop there. The second part, titled Hard to Kill, is set to hit bookstores on July 29, 2024.

The TV adaptation, which will be helmed by Miki Johnson, is currently titled Jane Smith. Its official synopsis describes it as a show that “centers on a brilliant, tough, and darkly funny defense attorney in the Hamptons. Up to this point, Jane has only cared about winning; however, her world is completely turned upside down when, on the eve of the biggest case of her career, she is diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor. While the investigation becomes more dangerous and deeply personal, Jane refuses to let her death sentence stop her from solving this case.”

James Patterson’s Legacy & What Fans Can Expect From Renée Zellweger in the Lead

James Patterson’s novels have been adapted for the screen several times. From 1997’s Kiss the Girls to 2012’s Alex Cross, his works have had a successful history. Now, with 12 Months to Live, he continues to capture the interests of audiences across all mediums. Jane Smith falls under Patterson’s deal with Skydance TV, which is preparing to translate a series of his novels into streaming content. Skydance has previously produced TV shows like Reacher and Jack Ryan, which should give audiences some idea of what to expect from the Jane Smith series.

Renée Zellweger’s portrayal of the main character, meanwhile, has the potential to be breathtaking. As Jane, she won’t just be a lawyer, she will be a witty, resilient, and determined character. Fans can expect intense courtroom drama, nerve-racking suspense, and moments of vulnerability as Jane grapples with her future. Zellweger is also no stranger to accolades. The star has won two Academy Awards for her performances in Cold Mountain and Judy. She is also the recipient of two BAFTA Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, and an Independent Spirit Award. Her most prominent role has been in the 2001 romantic comedy Bridget Jones’s Diary. Speaking of which, Zellweger is officially cast for Bridget Jones 4, which is currently in development. The movie will be based on the third book in Helen Fielding’s book series, Mad About the Boy.