Lisa Wilkinson Novel ‘The Titanic Story Of Evelyn’ To Be Adapted For TV

Australian journalist, writer, and author Lisa Wilkinson's bestselling non-fiction book, "The Titanic Story of Evelyn," is slated for a television adaptation. The production banner, The Set Up, a new venture founded by Bruna Papandrea, Steve Hutensky, and Alison Hurbert-Burns, has partnered with Wilkinson for this project. The book, which was published in April 2026, details the compelling narrative of Evelyn, a figure whose life is intrinsically linked to the historical tragedy of the Titanic. The adaptation aims to bring Wilkinson's meticulously researched and engaging storytelling to a visual medium, allowing a wider audience to connect with the subject matter.

The Set Up, established recently, brings together a team with significant experience in television and film production. Bruna Papandrea is known for her work on critically acclaimed projects, while Steve Hutensky and Alison Hurbert-Burns also bring substantial industry expertise. Their collaboration with Lisa Wilkinson signifies a commitment to adapting high-quality literary works into compelling television series. Wilkinson herself is a highly respected figure in Australian media, with a career spanning decades in journalism and broadcasting. Her foray into non-fiction writing with "The Titanic Story of Evelyn" has already garnered significant attention and commercial success, underscoring the potential appeal of its television adaptation.

The book's focus on the Titanic disaster provides a rich historical backdrop for narrative exploration. The Titanic, which sank on its maiden voyage in April 1912 after striking an iceberg, remains one of history's most enduring and tragic maritime events. Stories emerging from the disaster often highlight themes of survival, loss, social class, and human resilience. By adapting "The Titanic Story of Evelyn," The Set Up and Lisa Wilkinson intend to delve into the personal experiences and broader societal implications connected to this catastrophic event, offering a fresh perspective through Evelyn's narrative.

While specific details regarding the cast, director, or network for the television adaptation have not yet been disclosed, the announcement itself marks a significant development in the literary-to-screen adaptation landscape. The collaboration between a prominent author and an emerging production company signals a strategic move to leverage successful literary properties for television. The success of "The Titanic Story of Evelyn" as a bestseller suggests a strong existing audience base eager to see the story translated into a visual format. This adaptation is expected to draw upon the book's factual grounding and emotional depth to create a captivating television series that resonates with viewers interested in historical dramas and compelling human stories.