NBC and UK broadcaster Sky Living are teaming up for a new drama series titled Dracula. Based on the classic Bram Stoker novel, the co-production has been given a 10 episode order, with Jonathan Rhys Meyers (The Tudors) having been cast as the eponymous character. Production on the show’s first season is due to commence later this year
The new series is based on a script by Cole Haddon and tells the story of Dracula as he arrives in London seemingly as an American entrepreneur who claims he wants to bring modern developments in science and technology to the city. In truth, Dracula hopes to wreak revenge on the people who ruined his life centuries earlier. There’s only one circumstance that can potentially thwart his plan: Dracula falls hopelessly in love with a woman who seems to be a reincarnation of his dead wife. The series is being produced by Carnival Films, Universal Television, Flame Ventures, Playground and BSkyB (Sky Living). Colin Callender, Tony Krantz, Gareth Neame and Anne Mensah are serving as executive producers.
Speaking of Dracula, Bela Bajaria, Executive Vice-President at Universal Television, said: “We are thrilled to produce this smart, sophisticated, and provocative re-imagining of ‘Dracula,’ in partnership with Colin, Tony and our International studio arm and Sky Living for NBC Network. It is a timeless tale with relevant, surprising twists and turns with the exquisite Jonathan Rhys Meyers in the marquee role.”
Michael Edelstein, President of NBCUniversal International Television Production, comented: “We are delighted that Jonathan Rhys Meyers has chosen this project to return to television and have built an amazing team of producers behind the camera to deliver this extraordinary show. Since 1897, the story of Dracula has captivated readers and viewers alike and this sexy, updated twist on the classic also promises not to disappoint.”
While Anne Mensah, Sky’s Head of Drama, said: “I am so pleased to be announcing our first-ever co-production with NBCUniversal and we are delighted to be bringing an actor as exciting as Jonathan Rhys Meyers to Sky. ‘Dracula’ combines the biggest and best talent both in front of and behind the camera and will keep our customers intrigued and enthralled. With its dark, twisted and intelligent script it absolutely sets the scale, tone and ambition for future dramas on Sky Living.”
With Antonia Hurford-Jones, Acting Director of Sky Living, also commenting: “As one of the nation’s most iconic literary characters, this new incarnation of ‘Dracula’ feels like the perfect fit for our Sky Living audience. It’s an extremely exciting time for the channel and this co-production with NBCUniversal marks the start of big things to come.”
