The Shards: Evan Rachel Wood, Wes Bentley, and Jordan Roth Join Ryan Murphy’s FX Adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis Novel
Ryan Murphy is expanding his creative universe yet again with his upcoming FX adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’ novel The Shards. The series, which has already been generating buzz since its announcement earlier this year, just added three major names to its cast: Evan Rachel Wood, Wes Bentley, and Jordan Roth.
This new development comes via Deadline and The Hollywood Reporter, and it cements The Shards as one of FX’s most anticipated psychological thrillers currently in production.
Star-Studded Cast Expands for The Shards
The new cast members join Kaia Gerber (American Horror Story), who was the first to be attached to the project, alongside Igby Rigney (The Midnight Club), Graham Campbell (Late Fame), Hayes Warner, and newcomer Homer Gere.
While character details for the new additions are being kept under wraps, it’s been confirmed that Rigney will portray a young version of Bret Easton Ellis, the author himself. Gere takes on the role of Robert Mallory, while Campbell plays Thom Wright, and Warner appears as Debbie Shaffer, “a rich prep school girl with the right connections.”
The addition of Wood (Westworld), Bentley (Yellowstone), and Roth (Tony Award-winning producer) hints at deeper layers to the series’ ensemble, suggesting new characters who could expand the intrigue and emotional complexity of Ellis’ 1980s Los Angeles setting.
The Story Behind The Shards
The Shards is a semi-autobiographical coming-of-age thriller written by Bret Easton Ellis, the author best known for American Psycho and Less Than Zero. The story centers on 17-year-old Ellis, a prep school senior in early 1980s Los Angeles, whose life spirals after a mysterious new student, Robert Mallory, transfers to Buckley Prep.
Set against the backdrop of a fictionalized, neon-lit LA in 1981, the series explores paranoia, desire, and violence, all while Ellis suspects that Mallory may be linked to a serial killer known as “The Trawler.”
The book began as a serialized audiobook on Ellis’ Patreon in 2020, later becoming a published novel in 2023. Its moody, introspective tone and slow-burn mystery make it a natural fit for Murphy’s signature blend of psychological tension and stylized storytelling.
Ryan Murphy’s Vision for FX
Known for his prolific work on American Horror Story, Feud, The Watcher, and Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story, Ryan Murphy continues his long-standing relationship with FX through The Shards.
The series will be directed by Max Winkler, a frequent Murphy collaborator who has previously helmed episodes of American Horror Story, Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, Monster: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, and Grotesquerie. Winkler’s visual style and experience with character-driven drama make him a fitting choice to capture Ellis’ blend of suburban privilege and underlying dread.
“The Shards perfectly fits Murphy’s fascination with glamour, danger, and the dark psychology of American youth,” one insider told Deadline.
The Shards’ Rocky Development History
Interestingly, The Shards has had a long journey to the screen. The project was originally in development at HBO, with acclaimed directors Luca Guadagnino (Challengers, Call Me by Your Name) and Kristoffer Borgli (Dream Scenario) each considering taking the reins.
At one point, Jacob Elordi (Euphoria, Saltburn) was even rumored to star as young Bret Easton Ellis, but those plans ultimately fell apart due to creative differences. FX’s current version, driven by Murphy, officially entered production this fall, with Kaia Gerber and Homer Gere already spotted filming on set.
Why Fans Are Excited
For fans of both Ryan Murphy and Bret Easton Ellis, The Shards promises an intoxicating combination of dark elegance, nostalgia, and psychological suspense. The story’s themes — obsession, privilege, and moral decay — align perfectly with Murphy’s penchant for stylishly sinister storytelling.
Meanwhile, the casting of Evan Rachel Wood and Wes Bentley brings a dramatic gravitas that could elevate the emotional stakes. Both actors have experience navigating morally complex worlds, having starred in Westworld and Yellowstone, respectively.
What’s Next for The Shards
Production on The Shards is currently underway, with an FX premiere expected in 2026. The show is likely to follow Murphy’s established release strategy: airing on FX and streaming the next day on Hulu in the U.S., and Disney+ internationally.
While details about the episode count and release structure remain unknown, fans can expect The Shards to blend thriller, mystery, and psychological drama, continuing Murphy’s recent run of prestige TV adaptations.
FAQs About The Shards
1. Who stars in The Shards?
The ensemble includes Kaia Gerber, Evan Rachel Wood, Wes Bentley, Jordan Roth, Igby Rigney, Homer Gere, Hayes Warner, and Graham Campbell.
2. What is The Shards about?
The series follows a teenage Bret Easton Ellis in 1981 Los Angeles as he becomes entangled in the life of a mysterious new student — and a potential connection to a local serial killer.
3. Who is directing The Shards?
Max Winkler, known for his work on American Horror Story and Feud, is directing the series.
4. When will The Shards premiere?
The FX series is currently in production and expected to release sometime in 2026.
5. How is this version different from previous attempts?
Earlier versions were in development at HBO but were shelved due to creative differences. Ryan Murphy’s FX adaptation is the first to move into full-scale production.
Looking Ahead
With a strong creative team, a standout cast, and the unmistakable flair of Ryan Murphy’s direction, The Shards is shaping up to be one of FX’s most ambitious projects yet. Combining Bret Easton Ellis’ psychological edge with Murphy’s signature visual storytelling could result in a haunting, seductive television event.
Are you excited to see this adaptation come to life? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation on InvestRecords.com!
