Andrew Haigh has been appointed to write and direct a new television series about the influential American artist Keith Haring. This project is being developed by Working Title Television, which has secured the rights based on Brad Gooch’s biography, Radiant: The Life and Line of Keith Haring. The series seeks to explore Haring’s significant impact on art and culture during the vibrant 1980s.
The announcement comes amid a growing interest in biographical storytelling in the entertainment industry. Haigh is known for his recent film All of Us Strangers, which has garnered critical acclaim, including six BAFTA nominations. The executive producers for this new series include Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, and Katy Rozelle, all representing Working Title Television, a division of Universal International Studios. Haigh, Gooch, and The Keith Haring Foundation will also serve as executive producers.
Haring, who passed away at the age of 31 due to AIDS-related complications, was not only a pioneering figure in the pop art movement but also an outspoken activist for AIDS awareness. His vibrant artworks became emblematic of New York City’s graffiti culture, resonating with themes of love, life, and social justice.
In a statement, Haigh expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Haring’s work, while profoundly personal, speaks to something deep in us all.” He highlighted two of Haring’s notable pieces, Radiant and Party of Life, describing them as a celebration of life even in the face of adversity. “Keith’s story pulses with the unshakable belief that art can change the world,” Haigh added.
The Keith Haring Foundation, established by the artist in 1989, continues to preserve his artistic legacy and supports non-profit organizations focusing on children and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. Bevan remarked, “We are honored to partner with the Keith Haring Foundation, Brad Gooch, and Andrew Haigh to bring the brilliant story of Keith’s life to the screen.”
Haigh’s previous works include A24’s Lean on Pete (2017) and IFC’s 45 Years (2015), which earned an Oscar nomination for actress Charlotte Rampling. His television credits include serving as an executive producer and lead writer-director on HBO’s Looking (2014-2016).
Gooch, acclaimed for his biographies such as City Poet: The Life and Times of Frank O’Hara and Flannery: A Life of Flannery O’Connor, is also represented by UTA and Joy Harris Literary. The Haring Foundation is further supported by The Wylie Agency and Stout Thomas & Johnson.
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, this new series promises to highlight the lasting influence of Keith Haring’s art and activism. With Haigh at the helm, expectations are high for a compelling representation of a cultural icon whose work remains deeply relevant today.
