The upcoming FX series, Alien: Earth, is set to carve out its own narrative path, distinct from prior installments in the Alien franchise. Producer David W. Zucker has confirmed that the show will not reference events from earlier films, including Prometheus and Alien: Covenant, although they exist within the same timeline.
Zucker, in an interview before the show’s mid-August premiere, indicated that the series’ creator, Noah Hawley, had the creative freedom to create a fresh story without needing to adhere to the established mythology of earlier films. Set in the year 2120, Alien: Earth occurs just two years before the original Alien film, with Prometheus and Alien: Covenant preceding it. Despite having significant events and lore, the stories from these films will not impact the narrative of the new series, allowing for a more original take on the franchise.
The producer emphasized that this creative decision opens up new avenues for storytelling. He noted that Hawley’s vision was inspired by the original film while allowing him to develop an independent storyline. FX Entertainment President Gina Balian reiterated this idea, suggesting that viewers shouldn’t expect the same interconnectedness seen in franchises like Marvel.
While some long-time fans might feel puzzled or even frustrated by this approach, it also presents an opportunity for a fresh perspective on the Alien universe. The show’s creators are focusing on crafting a compelling narrative that honors the essence of the original franchise while allowing for innovative storytelling.
As anticipation builds for Alien: Earth, which will debut on August 12 in the U.S. and August 13 internationally, fans can look forward to a new and distinct exploration of this iconic sci-fi universe. With its original concepts and artistic freedom, the series could rejuvenate interest in the franchise and captivate both new and returning audiences.