Shonda Rhimes developing ‘Romeo & Juliet’ sequel at ABC

Shonda Rhimes is developing another project at ABC, and focusing on the ultimate romantic drama - Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet.

The series is based on Still Star-Crossed by Melinda Taub and was written by Scandal co-executive producer Heather Mitchell, reports Deadline. Taub’s novel centers on the impact Romeo and Juliet’s deaths have on the Capulets and the Montagues. Prince Escalus tries to end the family feud by ordering Benvolio to marry Juliet’s cousin.

The ShondaLand drama will be executive produced by Rhimes and Betsy Beers with Mitchell and Michael R. Goldstein of The MrG Production Company, notes The Hollywood Reporter.

ShondaLand has sold three other projects during the current development season and all have ended up at ABC. They include Brides of Christ; a Baghdad-set Army soap; and divorce comedy Splitsville.

ABC currently airs Rhimes’ Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal and How To Get Away With Murder. Another ShondaLand production, The Family, is scheduled for midseason.