Mike Flanagan is taking on a Stephen King inspired Carrie TV series adaptation for Prime Video, reimagining the legendary horror story with a fresh and modern perspective. Set to write, showrun, and direct select episodes, Flanagan’s vision introduces new layers to the classic narrative, earning reluctant yet eventual approval from Stephen King himself.
Prime Video Embarks on a New Take for Carrie
Flanagan, known for his successful adaptations like Gerald’s Game, Doctor Sleep, and The Life of Chuck, returns to familiar territory with this eight-episode series. He isn’t alone in steering the project, but his creative authority is front and center. When first presented with the idea, horror author Stephen King was hesitant, questioning the need for yet another adaptation.
“His first response was, ‘Leave her alone. She’s been through enough,’”
Flanagan stated.—Mike Flanagan, Director/Showrunner
However, Flanagan persisted, providing King with the series bible and detailed plans. As more information surfaced, King became intrigued by the new approach.
“But it’s that thing where the more information I could share, and sending him the bible and the plan for the show, he could see the thing we were trying to do that was new. Then he said, ‘Ohh, now I’m interested, just as a fan. I’m excited to see where this goes.’ Once he said yes, then we were off, because if Steve had said no, I wouldn’t do it.”
—Mike Flanagan, Director/Showrunner
Modern Themes and Community Dynamics
This Stephen King inspired Carrie TV series adaptation distinguishes itself by examining contemporary issues beyond the original story’s scope. Flanagan plans to highlight the destructive impact of modern social tools on communities, redefining iconic moments from the novel.
“So we’re focused way more on the destruction of a community through these very modern tools. What happens in a world where the internet has created an environment of perceived anonymity? Carrie White in the locker room in every iteration is a horrifying scene. Carrie White in the locker room when people have phones in their hands is a whole different thing,”
Flanagan said.—Mike Flanagan, Director/Showrunner
While the essence of Carrie—bullying, isolation, and the supernatural—remains, Flanagan’s focus shifts the story’s center from Carrie White alone to the wider effects on the community and how technology shapes those experiences. He notes that the new series is
“not retelling the story as it’s been told, and we’re not making a show about telekinesis. It’s in there, but that’s not what it’s about,”
signaling a deliberate departure from past versions.
Carrie’s Enduring Legacy and Flanagan’s Unique Vision
At the heart of Stephen King’s novel, misfit teen Carrie White struggles with her domineering mother and the fallout after her father’s untimely death, leading to her introduction to public high school, a traumatic bullying scandal, and the discovery of telekinetic abilities.
“Misfit high schooler Carrie White has spent her life in seclusion with her domineering mother. After her father’s sudden and untimely death, Carrie finds herself contending with the alien landscape of public High School, a bullying scandal that shatters her community, and the emergence of mysterious telekinetic powers.”
—Variety, Story Recap
Previously, filmmakers Brian De Palma, David Carson, Kimberly Peirce, and Katt Shea each contributed to Carrie’s on-screen history, spanning decades and interpretations. Flanagan’s adaptation promises yet another shift—this time grounded in present-day anxieties, shifting viewpoints, and communal trauma exacerbated by digital culture.
This new series is poised to reshape perceptions of both Carrie White and the story’s central conflicts, potentially influencing the future direction of Stephen King adaptations. As anticipation grows, Prime Video, King’s loyal fans, and followers of Flanagan’s work await a version of Carrie that confronts the dangers and complexity of a connected, modern world.
