Devil May Cry Producer Snags Duke Nukem Rights

Netflix's Castlevania and Devil May Cry executive producer Adi Shankar has secured the screen adaptation rights to Duke Nukem from Gearbox Software.

The acclaimed animation producer hinted at his newest venture during an interview with Esquire. While projects like Devil May Cry Season 2 remain priorities, development appears to be underway for an adaptation of the iconic satirical FPS franchise.

"I'm being approached with various IPs and companies seeking collaboration," Shankar revealed. "I've acquired the Duke Nukem rights from Gearbox - not the gaming rights, but adaptation rights."

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The Duke Nukem franchise emerged prominently in the 1990s, launching in 1991 before achieving FPS fame with 1996's Duke Nukem 3D. Despite numerous sequels over fifteen years, the 2011 PlayStation 3/Xbox 360 release Duke Nukem Forever drew widespread criticism, effectively shelving the series.

Shankar already envisions modern interpretations of the cigar-chomping protagonist. While unclear whether this will take form as an animated series (like his previous work), live-action film, or alternative format, Shankar confirms active development.

"This will be uncompromising," Shankar emphasized regarding creative control. "Duke Nukem represents rebellion. Corporate influence would destroy its essence. Nobody will dictate creative decisions on this project."

Details remain scarce regarding casting, plot, or release windows. It's also uncertain how this acquisition affects Legendary Entertainment's previously announced Duke Nukem live-action film.

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For context on Shankar's style, explore his Netflix portfolio. Our reviews awarded Devil May Cry Season 1 an 8/10, while 2017's Castlevania debut scored 8.1/10. Current Netflix projects include the Castlevania: Nocturne spinoff, Assassin's Creed series, and PUBG animated adaptation.