Apple TV surprised viewers when it pulled its new series The Hunt only days before its planned premiere. The show disappeared from the Apple TV app on November 20, and neither Apple nor the production team offered an official explanation. However, sources now claim that the decision links to a serious plagiarism issue involving a 1970s novel and its film adaptation.
Claims of Copying a Classic Story
French media expert Clement Garin suggested that director and creator Cedric Anger adapted major story elements from Shoot, a novel written by Douglas Fairbairn in 1973. The book follows a group of friends on a hunting trip who become targets of another group. After one member is injured, the characters try to move on with their lives, but they continue to feel watched and hunted. The plot in The Hunt reportedly mirrors this structure closely.
The original novel was also adapted into a 1976 film, which increases the risk of legal conflict for Apple and its production partner, Gaumont.
Apple Moves to Limit Legal Risk
Apple and Gaumont reportedly acted quickly once the plagiarism concern surfaced. They removed trailers, press pages, and promotional material across platforms, including multiple YouTube accounts. Cast and crew members also received instructions not to discuss the project publicly. These steps suggest that the companies want to avoid potential lawsuits and financial damage.
Future of the Series Remains Uncertain
The show is reportedly complete and ready for streaming, which puts Apple in a difficult position. The companies may attempt to reach an agreement with Fairbairn’s estate and the book’s publishers. Such a deal could allow the series to be released legally, but it would significantly increase production costs.
There is also speculation that Apple and Gaumont may pursue legal action against Anger for alleged deception during development. Even so, recovering the full investment may be impossible.
