Provenance Films has optioned Erica Armstrong Dunbar's 2017 book Never Caught: The Washingtons' Relentless Pursuit of Their Runaway Slave, Ona Judge, a National Book Award Finalist in Nonfiction, for a feature film, Deadline reported. LaToya Morgan (The Walking Dead, Into the Badlands, Shameless) will adapt the screenplay.
Lisa Ellis, managing partner of Provenance Ventures, said Dunbar's "impeccably researched, masterfully written, and critically acclaimed work tells the true story of how one woman risked everything for her freedom from one of America's most famous founding fathers. At Provenance Films, we are drawn to thought-provoking stories that further the national and global conversations on race, gender, history, and perspective, and look to collaborate with poignant storytellers and creators who not only aim to beautifully portray these narratives on screen, but also provide untold truths to history, inclusive opportunities, and provide representation for others throughout every step of the creative process. Dunbar's book reminded me of how history has not been told in its entirety. We have truly assembled a powerful team with LaToya Morgan now onboard to further adapt this history for a cinematic audience which will continue to share Ona Judge's legacy for future generations on screen."