Universal TV/Courtesy Everett Collection
KITT is gearing up for a new adventure thanks to the creative talents behind Cobra Kai.
Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg, and Josh Heald, the acclaimed creators of the Netflix series, are reportedly in discussions with Universal Pictures to adapt Knight Rider, the iconic 1980s action drama featuring a talking car, into a feature film.
The trio is in the preliminary stages of writing the screenplay, with plans for Hurwitz and Schlossberg to possibly direct the project. They will also produce through their Counterbalance Entertainment banner, collaborating with Kelly McCormick and David Leitch, known for The Fall Guy, who will produce under their 87North banner. Additional production support will come from Gary Barber and Chris Stone through Spyglass Media Group.
Knight Rider, originally aired on NBC from 1982 to 1986, was a significant series of its time, noted for its high-concept premise, charismatic lead, and a memorable synth score. The show starred David Hasselhoff as Michael Knight, a detective who becomes an agent for FLAG (the Foundation for Law and Government), partnered with KITT, a modified, artificially intelligent, indestructible Trans Am. Together, they fought against individuals who flouted the law.
A feature adaptation of Knight Rider has been in development for several years, with a previous script written by Kevin Burrows and Matt Mider. However, specific details regarding the new vision remain under wraps, but fans can expect a fresh take from the creators of Cobra Kai.
Hurwitz and Schlossberg, who made their mark with the Harold & Kumar films, later collaborated on the successful American Reunion for Universal. Their work on Cobra Kai has been met with critical acclaim, earning an Emmy nomination for outstanding comedy series, emphasizing their ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary storytelling.
Since concluding the sixth and final season of Cobra Kai earlier in 2023, Hurwitz, Schlossberg, and Heald have been exploring various new projects, including a potential new installment of Harold & Kumar with Lionsgate. This team demonstrates a commitment to reimagining classic narratives, having also worked on a spinoff of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
The project will be overseen by Universal’s executive VP of production development, Matt Reilly, alongside director of development, Tony Ducret.
Based on reporting by Hollywood Reporter. Read the full story at Hollywood Reporter.