Game of Thrones creators' controversial HBO series Confederate 'in limbo' following Star Wars announcement

The series sparked outrage for its planned depiction of modern-day slavery

(Getty Images)

The news that Game of Thrones creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss are to write and produce a new series of Star Wars films has reportedly left the fate of planned HBO series confederate in the balance.

The pair were set to follow-up their Thrones success with the controversial series - announced in July 2017 - that sparked outrage for its plot: Confederate was to be set in an alternate timeline where the Southern states had seceded from the union with slavery remaining legal and continuing into the present day

According to Deadline, it seems HBO is deciding to cut its losses with Confederate now Benioff and Weiss have been enlisted by Disney to create an entirely new saga set in a galaxy far, far away.

“We are honoured by the opportunity, a little terrified by the responsibility, and so excited to get started as soon as the final season of Game of Thrones is complete,” they said following the announcement.

The premium cable network is approaching what is sure to be a crucial stage once Thrones - its biggest ratings-puller - draws to a close but will certainly be fine without Confederate. Its slate of new projects includes Sharp Objects, Succession and Demimonde, J.J. Abrams' first new television series in 10 years.

Returning shows to reach screens over the coming years include True Detective, The Deuce, Big Little Lies and Westworld which is undoubtedly being lined up as the network's biggest series following the new trailer which dropped at Super Bowl 51.

The final season of Game of Thrones is currently shooting and will air in 2019.

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