Neil Gaiman, bestselling author and creator of American Gods, has recently penned a letter announcing the season 3 release date of the American Gods TV show. Within that letter Gaiman not only announces the premiere for season 3, but discusses the timely nature of the show, and the thought process behind bringing audiences Shadow's story. It would seem that Shadow is finally making his way to Lakeside, an important location in the original novel, and one that suggests some important parts of the book are making their way to the show.
Fans of the novel will remember that a significant part of the original story features Shadow resting between jobs at this sleepy town, where he meets several important characters, including Hinzelmann, who is also being teased for the third season. Gaiman also re-emphasized one of the story's biggest conflicts: "We wanted to focus on the characters and their journeys. To show Shadow forging a path guided by the Gods of his ancestors, becoming more himself while deciding who he is and what side he’s on — humanity’s or that of the Gods."
However, this wasn't just a promotional campaign, and Gaiman had some reflections on the significance of the story for this moment in time. "We didn’t think it would prove as timely when we plotted it, nor did I think the novel would still be relevant when I wrote it over 20 years ago. But I’m glad it’s happening now, in a year when it feels as though diverse stories are being heard, and honored, and allowed to change the future."
The American Gods TV show has been through some troubled times. Original showrunners Bryan Fuller and Michael Green left after season 1 following conflict with Starz. Jesse Alexander was brought in to replace them, but also left after feeling sidelined by the production. Kristin Chenoweth and Gillian Anderson left after season 1, and further drama continues to swirl around current showrunner Charles Eglee following a twitter post by Orlando Jones who played Mr. Nancy on the show. Hopefully Gaiman's continued enthusiasm and involvement indicates that the heart of the original story still beats inside the show.
Season 3 of American Gods will premiere January 10, 2021 on Starz.
Source: Collider