James Bond writers will pen Barbarella TV series

Jane Fonda in the 1968 film

Neal Purvis and Robert Wade, the writers of the latest James Bond movie, Skyfall, have been signed up to pen the upcoming TV adaptation of Barbarella.

The writing duo are behind five recent Bond movies including Quantum of Solace and Casino Royal.

Barbarella will be based on the iconic character created by Jean-Claude Forest and made famous in the 1968 film of the same name staring Jane Fonda.

Nicolas Refn (Drive) will direct and executive produce the series alongside Martha De Laurentiis.

“I’m extremely excited that Neal and Robert have signed on to develop and write Barbarella with me,” said Refn. “I’m certain that the combination of our creative forces will produce a show that is as enthralling as it is sexy.”

Barbarella will be made by Gaumont International Television. French premium broadcaster Canal+ has already come on board.