We all know how much model-turned-actress Kaia Gerber loves a great book – and now, it's official: she'll be starring in a big-name book-to-screen adaptation. Stepping back into Ryan Murphy’s world, Gerber will be leading his newest series project, The Shards, based on American Psycho novelist Bret Easton Ellis’ 2023 novel of the same name. Developed for FX, and originally unveiled as a serialised podcast before becoming a bestseller, The Shards has long flirted with screen adaptation. Past versions at HBO drew attention from filmmakers like Luca Guadagnino and Kristoffer Borgli, but it’s Murphy’s touch — and his proven ability to spin darkness into pop cultural gold — that’s finally pushing the project forward.
Here's everything we know so far about the adapted series.
What is the plot?
The Shards is a chilling, semi-autobiographical coming-of-age tale set in Los Angeles in 1981. The story follows a 17-year-old version of Ellis during his final year at an elite prep school, where a mysterious new student arrives — just as a serial killer known as The Trawler begins to haunt the city.
Who is involved in the series?
Dark, stylish and sun-soaked in 70s dread, the series is executive produced by Murphy alongside Ellis, director Max Winkler (another Murphy regular), and longtime collaborators Nick Hall, Kathleen McCaffrey, and Brian Young. With Winkler set to direct the pilot, the creative team promises a slickly curated, retro-noir aesthetic.
We obviously know Gerber is set to lead the cast, but we're yet to hear who else will be acting alongside her.
When will it be released?
The series is still in very early stages of production, so we likely won't see it on screens until late 2026.
What else has Kaia Gerber acted in?
For fashion’s It-girl-turned-actor, and with her own book club, the move to a literary adaptation feels both natural and daring. Gerber previously appeared in American Horror Story and American Horror Stories, earning Murphy’s favour for her poised intensity and on-screen presence. And her casting continues a rapid ascent across screens big and small. From roles in Hacks and Palm Royale, to upcoming projects with Jason Reitman and Jonah Hill, she’s proving to be more than a famous last name. With The Shards, she may just carve out a defining role — one that’s equal parts eerie, glamorous, and unforgettable.
