Fantasy Island remake in works

The original Fantasy Island

US network ABC is partnering with Sony Pictures Television to develop a new version of 1970s drama Fantasy Island.

Fantasy Island, created by Gene Levitt and originally hailing from Spelling-Goldberg Productions, ran 1978 to 1984 on ABC.

Sheldon Turner (Up in the Air, X-Men: First Class) is penning the reboot and it is understood there are plans for a female lead.

Turner will exec produce with Jennifer Klein through their Sony TV-based Vendetta Productions. Josh Berman is also exec producing.

In 1998, ABC aired a remake that starred Malcolm McDowell but it lasted just one season, finishing its run on Sci Fi Channel and UPN.

Another remake was attempted in 2009, when Sony TV partnered with Mark Burnett to turn the show into a reality series. However, the programme never aired.