Netflix just released the first batch of photos from the upcoming East of Eden series adaptation starring Florence Pugh as Cathy Ames, a character that author John Steinbeck describes as a psychic monster. The first-look photos accompanied the streamer’s announcement that the seven-episode limited series will premiere on October 1, 2026.
In addition to Pugh, the series stars Christopher Abbott as Adam Trask, Mike Faist as Charles Trask, Hoon Lee as Lee, Tracy Letts as Cyrus Trask, Ciarán Hinds as Samuel Hamilton, Martha Plimpton as Faye, Joseph Zada as Cal Trask, and Joe Anders as Aron Trask.
Netflix’s official synopsis: “This modern interpretation of Steinbeck’s masterpiece will explore the multigenerational saga of the Trask family, focusing new attention on its indelible antihero, Cathy Ames.”
Controversial director Elia Kazan helmed the 1955 adaptation of Steinbeck’s novel. Starring James Dean and Jo Van Fleet, the 1955 film earned four Oscar nominations, with Van Fleet winning in the Best Supporting Actress category. Elia Kazan’s granddaughter, actor and filmmaker Zoe Kazan, adapted Steinbeck’s novel for the limited series and serves as executive producer and co-showrunner.
“I wanted to make sure that she was also a person and not just an archetype,” stated Kazan, discussing her interpretation of Cathy. “I think that really required me to do some unfolding rather than inventing. Basically, everything that’s in the series has at least a root in the book.”
Jeb Stuart is the co-showrunner and executive producer. Florence Pugh, Garth Davis, Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre, Antoine Douiahy, Zack Hayden, Steve Golin, David Levine, and Jill Arthur also executive produce. Davis and de Clermont-Tonnerre are the directors.