'Roots' remake in the works at History Channel LOS ANGELES, Nov. 5 (UPI) -- History Channel is planning to make an 8-hour miniseries based on Alex Haley's 1976 novel "Roots: The Saga of an American Family," EW.com reported Tuesday. The book about Africans sold into slavery and transported to the American colonies in the 18th century was previously adapted as a beloved 1977 miniseries called "Roots," starring Olivia Cole, Ben Vereen and LeVar Burton. The program was followed by the 1979 sequel "Roots: The Next Generations," as well as the 1988 TV movie "Roots: The Gift." EW.com said Mark Wolper, the son of original "Roots" executive producer David L. Wolper, will executive produce the remake. No casting or anticipated air date were reported.