TV Series On Michael Jackson’s Final Days In Development

Filmmaker J.J. Abrams is adapting a new book about Michael Jackson for television with TV and radio host Tavis Smiley, co-author of the book.

Smiley’s company said Monday that Warner Bros. Television is on board the project with Smiley and Abrams.

The book, “Before You Judge Me: The Triumph and Tragedy of Michael Jackson’s Last Days,” will be published Tuesday by Little, Brown and Co.

Written by Smiley and David Ritz, it’s described as a novelistic take on the pop star’s final months.

Jackson, on the brink of a career comeback, died in June 2009 from an overdose of sedatives.

Photo: Rusty Kennedy, file/AP
Performing during the halftime show at the Super Bowl in Pasadena, Calif.

Abrams and Smiley will be executive producers on the TV series. A premier date and network that will air it wasn’t announced.

Abrams’ credits include “Star Wars” and “Star Trek” movies.