Prolific author Stephen King has revealed his next project. Speaking on a King-focused podcast, the novelist said that his next book will be called Holly, a character you may recall from Mr. Mercedes. The book will center on a character that has appeared in a number of King works before, but never as the main protagonist.
Holly Gibney on TV
Holly Gibney initially appeared in the Mr. Mercedes TV series, which aired for three seasons on the now-defunct Audience network and was played by Succession star Justine Lupe. Gibney also appeared in King's novel The Outsider, which was made into a limited series on HBO, this time starring Tony winner Cynthia Erivo.
Mr. Mercedes followed veteran detective Bill Hodges as he became entangled in the atrocities of Brady Hartsfield, a young psychopath wanting to leave his mark on the world. Gibney's job in the books/TV series is to provide support for the investigation through her sharp observations and investigative abilities.
Despite the fact that the Mr. Mercedes TV show ended in 2019, it has reawakened interest by becoming available to stream on Peacock.
Stephen King Gives Holly Gibney Her Big Break
On the podcast, The Kingcast, King said that his new book Holly will be based on the character and set around the coronavirus period. King discusses his infatuation with the character and how he continues to use her in many works, which is a very regular method for King. Despite the lack of a release date, the author is said to have finished the novel, implying that it will be published sooner rather than later.
“I could never let Holly Gibney go, from the Mr. Mercedes books. I mean, she was supposed to be a walk-on character and she just kind of stole the book and stole my heart and so… I just finished a novel that’s called Holly and it’s all her, man.”
More Stephen King Projects
The reveal occurs near the end of The Kingcast's hour-long talk, which is a fun listen for any King fan, and we highly recommend listening to the rest of the series. It's yet another major project in the ever-expanding King portfolio, which includes films, television shows, and books written by the terrifying storyteller himself.
Up next for King fans is Firestarter, starring Zac Efron as a father who will go to any length to prevent his super-powered, literally fiery daughter from being arrested by a malevolent government agency. Even if it means allowing her to set fire to the entire neighborhood.
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