Variety is reporting that Interplay Entertainment Corp. is working on a new animated series based around the popular video game franchise Earthworm Jim, which the developer is producing through its recently formed film and TV division.
As per the trade, the potential series will follow the adventures of the titular Jim, a worm in a futuristic robotic suit who fights evildoers as he embarks on a quest is to find his true home among the stars: a near-mythical planet called Earth.
Earthworm Jim debuted back on the Super Nintendo and SEGA Mega Drive back in 1994, and soon spawned a popular cartoon series that ran for two seasons. The series’ controversial creator Doug TenNapel will not be involved with the new incarnation, which is instead being steered by writer-director Michel K. Parandi, producer Aaron Billet and animation producer Marc Bodin-Joyeux of Passion Pictures.
“I remember loving Earthworm Jim as a kid,” states Parandi. “And there’s so much potential in this story universe: a galaxy full of animals battling for power. Jim is an earthworm in a universe where Earth is nothing more than a myth. His struggle to find meaning is surreal and comical, but it’s also relatable.”
“We are thrilled for the opportunity to create a show for an iconic character that we grew up both playing on Genesis, and watching on TV,” added Billet. “The fans have matured and deserve a current take as we bring in new audiences.”
Here’s a teaser for the series featuring an exclusive interview with its wiggly protagonist…