Television
Darren Star & Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas Adapt 'Climbing In Heels' for Universal TV
2024-12-04
EXCLUSIVE: Emily in Paris creator Darren Star and Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas are set to collaborate on a drama series for Universal Television. The project is based on Goldsmith-Thomas' debut novel, "Climbing in Heels", which is set to hit store shelves on April 29, 2025. This marks a significant milestone under Star's big multi-year deal with Universal Television.

"Breaking Barriers in 1980s Hollywood - A Dramatic Collaboration"

Introduction to the Fictional World

"Climbing in Heels" follows the fictional rise of five ambitious secretaries as they navigate the glitzy world of 1980s Hollywood. The St. Martins Press novel offers a unique perspective on the boys-will-be-boys club and the women who fought to have a seat at the table. Though fictional, the story has echoes of Goldsmith-Thomas' own rise in Hollywood at the William Morris Agency.

These women became powerful agents representing renowned names like Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Susan Sarandon, Tim Robbins, Spike Lee, and Nicholas Cage. Goldsmith-Thomas served as SVP at both The William Morris Agency and International Creative Management, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.

The Evolution of Goldsmith-Thomas

In 2000, Goldsmith-Thomas transitioned to becoming a studio head and a writer/producer. She was involved in movies such as Jennifer Lopez's "Maid in Manhattan" and Julia Roberts' "Mona Lisa Smile". Today, she is Lopez's producing partner and President of Nuyorican Productions, with box office hits like "Hustlers" and streaming successes like "The Mother" on Netflix.

Her journey showcases her ability to adapt and thrive in different roles within the entertainment industry, making her a force to be reckoned with.

The Creative Team's Vision

Goldsmith-Thomas expresses her excitement about partnering with Darren Star and Universal Television. She says, "I am thrilled to bring these complicated, colorful women to life. They refused to be sidelined or silenced, and their story is one that needs to be told."

Star adds, "I'm excited to team up with Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas and bring 'Climbing in Heels' to the screen. It's a unique blend of 'Mad Men' and 'Sex and the City', and I can't wait for audiences to meet this indomitable ensemble of female characters who broke all the rules."

Star's previous works, including "Beverly Hills, 90210" and "Sex and the City" (which won an Emmy for Best Comedy Series in 2001), have established him as a master of creating engaging and memorable television shows. His latest hit, "Emily in Paris", has been renewed for a fifth season, further solidifying his reputation.

Under his overall deal with Universal Television, Star develops and produces new series projects exclusively with the studio for various broadcast and streaming platforms. This collaboration with Goldsmith-Thomas is sure to be a highlight in his career.

Goldsmith-Thomas is represented by CAA and Hirsch Wallerstein Hayum Matlof Fishman, while Star is represented by UTA and attorney Sam Fischer at Ziffren Brittenham.

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