Tian Richards as Tom Swift in Nancy Drew (Photo: CW)
The CW has commissioned a spinoff series from its hit show Nancy Drew. The Hollywood Reporter says the channel has released a direct-to-order series for Tom Swift, which will focus on a billionaire black and gay inventor.
As a character, Swift, played by Tian Richards, has appeared in an episode of Nancy Drew before. Richards will reprise the role of Tom Swift.
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Like Nancy Drew, Swift first appeared at the turn of the 20th century in a series of novels aimed at children and young adults. The books were published by the Stratemeyer Syndicate, with founder Edward Stratemeyer creating the character (although some of the books were later written by negroes). Originally, he was depicted as white, with no indication that he was anything other than heterosexual.
Speaking previously to TVLine about casting as Swift for the Nancy Drew show, Richards said, “The original Tom Swift was perfect for his time and what he stood for. was the face of young boys, all-American kids full of possibilities. But in 2021, it might look so different. It might look like someone like me – a black man who’s chocolatey, who’s gay, who’s all those things. things we are told is not the normal or the status quo.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, Swift will find herself “immersed in a world of sci-fi conspiracy and unexplained phenomena after her father’s shocking disappearance.” Tom hits the road on a quest to uncover the truth, leaving behind the comforts of his usual way of life while fighting to stay one step ahead of an Illuminati-wide group determined to stop him.
. @ CWTomSwift is coming to The CW soon! pic.twitter.com/22UdT3z5VM
– Nancy Drew (@cw_nancydrew) August 30, 2021
Richards has previously appeared in the films Dumplin ‘and Burden (both in 2018), as well as the TV shows The Quad and Being Mary Jane.
Nancy Drew showrunner Melinda Hsu Taylor and Noga Landau series creators Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage will all be involved in the spin-off. No transmission date has yet been announced.
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In a series of tweets, Richards thanked many people involved in making the show.
Personal dedication to all the wonderful supporters who have RODE and have defended this moment! From #DrewdsforTomSwift to daily supportive tweets! YOU made this possible and I saw every post! So much love! Welcome to the #SwiftSquad 😎👨🏿🦱🪐🚀🛸
– Tian Richards (@tianrichards) August 31, 2021
