Keke Palmer has been cast in the TV adaptation of the cult classic dark comedy film, The ‘Burbs, which has been picked up straight-to-series by Peacock. This fresh take on the 1989 film will be adapted for television by Celeste Hughey, known for her work on Palm Royale and Dead to Me. Palmer, who will also executive produce, will portray one half of a young couple who move back to the husband’s childhood home, only to have their suburban tranquility shattered by suspicious new neighbors.
The original The ‘Burbs, released in 1989, was directed by Joe Dante and starred Tom Hanks, Carrie Fisher, Bruce Dern, Rick Ducommun, and Corey Feldman. The film follows the residents of a seemingly idyllic suburban neighborhood who grow increasingly convinced that their quirky new neighbors are dangerous murderers. Despite mixed reviews upon its release, The ‘Burbs grossed over $49 million at the box office against a reported budget of $18 million, securing modest financial success. Over time, the film has developed a loyal fanbase and is now celebrated as a cult classic for its unique blend of suburban satire and dark humor.
The new series, set in present-day suburbia, follows a young couple—played by Palmer and her co-star—as they return to the husband’s childhood home. Their attempt to settle into a quiet life is thrown into chaos when mysterious new neighbors move in, bringing old secrets of the cul-de-sac to light and introducing deadly threats that shatter the illusion of their quiet neighborhood. The series aims to capture the suspenseful and comedic essence of the original film while exploring new narrative angles for modern audiences.
She will be joined by executive producers Seth MacFarlane, Erica Huggins, and Aimee Carlson under their Fuzzy Door banner, alongside Brian Grazer of Imagine Entertainment, which produced the original film. Dana Olsen, who wrote the 1989 movie, will co-executive produce, maintaining a direct connection to the original material.
The series will be filmed on the Universal Studios backlot, the same iconic location used in the original production, which adds a nostalgic layer for fans of the film. Peacock continues its trend of reviving and reimagining classic Universal properties, with The ‘Burbs joining other adaptations such as Bel-Air, Ted, and Pitch Perfect: Bumper in Berlin.
With the rise of mystery comedies like Only Murders in the Building and Peacock’s own Poker Face, The ‘Burbs is set to captivate both fans of the original film and new audiences seeking a darkly humorous take on suburban life.