The duo will produce a limited series based on Nathan Hill's breakout novel "The Nix". The Oscar-winning actress is also expected to play the lead role for the project, reported Deadline.
The story centers around Samuel Andresen-Anderson, a college professor whose estranged mother reappears decades after abandoning the family, having committed an absurd crime that incites a media frenzy.
Abrams will produce under his Bad Robot banner, which is also behind HBO's upcoming "Westworld" adaptation. He also served as an executive producer on Showtime's Cameron Crowe dramedy "Roadies," CBS' "Person of Interest" and Hulu's "11.22.63.