It’s been a long, tumultuous journey for the epic big-screen adaptation of Stephen King’s magnum opus The Dark Tower and just when it seemed all had been set for Roland Deschain’s ka-tet to begin their journey to the center of all darkness, Deadline broke the news that Universal Pictures has completely pulled out of the multi-tiered project.

While Ron Howard has remained the driving force behind the massive project, even signing the always impressive Javier Bardem in the role of the mythical Gunslinger Roland, the news may be a critical blow to the ambitious venture.

The current status of the film to television series is unknown and Howard has yet to comment, but given the incredible fan support of the project, there are other houses that could ensure The Dark Tower remains alive and kicking. Remember, it took years for Peter Jackson to find a production company to back The Lord of the Rings and it was the last minute bid by New Line that saved the project and look how that turned out for them.

I for one would love to see either New Line or maybe even Warner Bros/Legendary Pictures pick this up. Given the size and scope of The Dark Tower I’m almost relieved to see Universal back out as the last major franchise they backed was The Mummy and we all saw where that eventually went.

Given the importance of the project (and the fanbase that has accumulated over the thirty years of its printing history), I strongly doubt we’ve seen the end of Roland’s inter-dimensional battle against The Crimson King to save all realities.

-Jarod