Authors of 'All Her Fault' and 'Excavations' Discuss Self-Advocacy in Adapting Their Work for TV: 'You Are the Expert'

Many of todays most popular TV shows originate from books, and authors can play an active role in shaping these adaptations. At the Bestseller to Binge-Worthy: Inside the Art of Page-to-Screen Storytelling panel, hosted by Peacock and Universal Studio Group, industry professionals emphasized that writers of optioned works should feel confident contributing to the adaptation process.

During TheWraps 2025 Power Women Summit, presented by STARZ #TakeTheLead, executive producer Ali Krug described authors involvement as both a gift and a joy. This perspective surprised Andrea Mara, author of All Her Fault, who co-produced the Peacock adaptation. Mara shared that she initially hesitated to intervene, fearing she might overstep. I thought I might be one of those authors who dictates every detail, she said. Instead, I decided to step back and trust the team, thinking, You are the experts in TV; Ill watch from the sidelines. Its reassuring to hear that author involvement is welcomed.

Kate Myers, who wrote Excavations and serves as co-executive producer on its series adaptation Dig starring Amy Poehler, experienced a similar realization. While visiting the writers room, she initially felt she had little to offer in terms of television expertise. However, answering questions about her story reminded her that she is the expert on her own world. I realized how much I know about the story I created, Myers explained. Being asked about the book validated my role in shaping the adaptation.

Krug added that ideally, the original novel and the TV adaptation should coexist without diminishing each other. Many adaptations, like Game of Thrones, manage to preserve the spirit of the book while allowing it to evolve on screen, she noted. During development, we ask authors how involved they want to be. Some take an active role, while others prefer to step back.

She also highlighted the value of content left out of the novel. Scenes or ideas that didnt make it into the book can be a rich resource for screenwriters, Krug said. The goal is to honor the essence of the story while expanding it for television.

The Power Women Summit is a key gathering for influential women in entertainment and media, offering panels, workshops, and networking opportunities to inspire and empower attendees.

Author: Sophia Brooks