Gregory David Roberts Novel “Shantaram” to be Adapted to Series

Charlie Hunnam at The State of the Industry: Past, Present and Future, STX films, CinemaCon, Las Vegas, Apr 2019. Photo by Matt Baron/Shutterstock (10185047bj)

One of the world’s best-selling novels is finally making the transition to screen.

Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts follows the story of a convicted Australian bank robber and heroin addict who escapes from Pentridge Prison and flees to India.

Almost 17 years after its debut on shelves, the book is now being turned into a series by Apple, Anonymous Content, and Paramount Television.

British actor Charlie Hunnam, most noted from his role on Sons of Anarchy, will play the lead role of Lindsay Ford — who is believed to based on Roberts himself — in the 10-episode series that is expected to incorporate the sequel, The Mountain Shadow, as well.

Justin Kurzel of Assassin’s Creed will direct the first two episodes of the series, which will be written by American Hustle screenwriter Eric Warren Singer. Both will also executive produce.

Production is expected to start in Australia and India next month with a $5 million tax incentive from the Australian government.