Aug 13, 2020

'Avatar: The Last Airbender' Creators Leaving Netflix Live-Action

Once again, the live-action "Avatar: The Last Airbender" is in trouble. The creators of the original animated feature, Michael Dante DiMartino and Brian Konietzko, have left the production of the Netflix adaptation after two years in the making.

In a philosophically worded open letter, Dimartino hints at problems with the production, though he is short on specifics:

When Brian and I signed on to the project in 2018, we were hired as executive producers and showrunners We were hired to produce and showrunner the series. In our joint announcement of the series, we stated that Netflix respected our vision for this retelling and committed to supporting the production of the series. And we expressed how excited we are about the opportunity to take the helm. Unfortunately, things did not turn out as we had hoped.

Look, things happen. Production is difficult. Unexpected events happen. Plans have to change. When those things happen at other points in my career, I try to adapt, like an air nomad (a kind of character in the original story). Whatever obstacles stand in my way, I do my best to go with the flow. But even as a "wanderer," I know when it's time to cut my losses and move on.

In a statement, a Netflix spokesperson noted the pair's departure: We have great respect and admiration for Michael and Brian and the stories they created with the animated Avatar series. Although they have chosen to leave the live-action project, we remain confident in the creative team and their adaptation." Nickelodeon is involved in the project, as are producer Dan Lin and his Rideback.

The original Avatar aired on Nickelodeon from 2005 to 2008 to critical acclaim, garnered a large fan base, and won numerous awards (including an Emmy). Its story world has already been developed in comic books and a follow-up series ("The Legend of Korra"). Then there is "The Last Airbender," a live-action adaptation made without the involvement of DiMartino and Konietzko that was met with great dismay. That fate should make Netflix executives hesitant.

For fans heartbroken by the news, there is a bright spot. I also want to make it clear that this does not mean the end of my involvement in the 'Avatar' universe," DiMartino added. These stories and characters are important to me, and the renewed interest and excitement for 'Avatar' and 'Korra' is exciting to watch."