Freeform to bring predatory mermaids from The Deep to TV

Last Updated on August 5, 2021

Ever since reading a story called Aquacarnivora, written by Olivo Vincent and illustrated in a 1989 issue of the magazine Monsters Attack!, I have been fascinated by the idea of mermaids as horrific, murderous creatures. While most people think of THE LITTLE MERMAID or SPLASH when mermaids are mentioned, I think of man-eating monsters.

Freeform is looking to explore the darker side of mermaid mythology with an hourlong drama called The Deep, having ordered a pilot that will be written and executive produced by Eric Wald and Dean White. The story 

takes place in Bristol Cove, a coastal town known for its legend of once being home to mermaids. When the arrival of a mysterious girl proves this folklore all too true, the battle between man and sea takes a very vicious turn as these predatory beings return to reclaim their right to the ocean. 

The pilot will be directed by Scott Stewart, who has previously directed the films PRIEST, LEGION, and DARK SKIES, as well as the Christmas segment of HOLIDAYS.

Brad Luff, Nate Hopper, and RD Robb will be executive producing the show alongside Wald and White. Emily Whitesell serves as showrunner.

Freeform's Karey Burke had this to say about the show: "The Deep is a very different show than one would expect when they hear the word 'mermaid' — the mermaid tale has been reinvented in this pilot. The writing is thrilling, stories complex and scary, and we are excited to explore the themes of obsession and violence through these amazing creatures."

Mermaids as violent, predatory creatures? That's exactly how I want to see them portrayed! Mermaid horror isn't unheard of, mermaids were at the center of films like KILLER MERMAID (pictured above) and SHE CREATURE (below), but it hasn't been done nearly enough.

The Deep pilot is set to go into production in Vancouver this September.