- A new television series is set to reimagine the classic character El Zorro, transforming the iconic masked vigilante into a French communist fighting against the wealthy.
- The series, which will premiere on AMC+, stars Oscar-winning actor Jean Dujardin in the lead role.
- According to creator Benjamin Charbit, the project originated from producer Marc Dujardin, who noted his brother Jean's interest in portraying the character.
- The creative team also sought to use the character to address contemporary political themes, including populism and the power of the wealthy elite.
Quick Summary
A new television series is reimagining the classic character El Zorro as a French communist fighting against the wealthy. The series, set to premiere on AMC+, stars Jean Dujardin in the lead role. The show's creator, Benjamin Charbit, explained that the project was inspired by the actor's interest in the role and a desire to explore political themes.
The series takes a comedic approach to the story of a vigilante fighting powerful men and populism. The writing process began six years ago, coinciding with Donald Trump's presidency, which influenced the show's focus on political violence. Charbit noted that this specific political version of the story likely could not be made in the United States.
A New Political Direction for El Zorro
The masked vigilante El Zorro is returning to television screens in 2026, but with a significant transformation. In this new adaptation, the classic hero is re-envisioned as a French communist dedicated to fighting the rich. This creative shift marks a departure from the character's traditional roots, aiming to inject contemporary political commentary into the narrative. The series is scheduled to stream on AMC+, bringing this unique version of the story to a global audience.
The decision to alter the character's background stems from a desire to address current social and political issues. Benjamin Charbit, the series creator, elaborated on the motivation behind the change. He stated that the team wanted to use the justiciero, or vigilante, to discuss politics, powerful men, and populism. This approach allows the show to explore the violence of the political class, a theme that remains highly relevant today.
This version could not be made in the United States— Benjamin Charbit, Series Creator
Jean Dujardin Takes the Lead 🎬
The involvement of Jean Dujardin was a driving force behind the series' development. Dujardin, who won an Oscar for his performance in the film The Artist, was identified as the ideal actor for the role. According to Charbit, producer Marc Dujardin initially proposed the idea, noting that his brother Jean wanted to play the part.
While Charbit admitted he was initially unsure about the casting, he recognized it as a strong possibility. The project ultimately moved forward with Dujardin attached to the lead role. The series aims to blend action with comedy to tell its story. Charbit described the production as a "cómica de contarlo," or a comedic way of telling the story, despite the serious political undertones.
Timing and Political Context 🗳️
The timing of the series' release is notable, as the concept was developed over a six-year period. The writing process began during Donald Trump's first term as President of the United States. This historical context heavily influenced the script's focus on the violence associated with the political class.
With the return of Trump to the political landscape, the show's themes have remained timely. The creators believe the subject of powerful men and populism is a "tema candente," or hot topic. Charbit emphasized that this specific political interpretation of the Zorro story is unique to the French production, stating, "This version could not be made in the United States."
"He wanted to use this justiciero to talk about politics, powerful men, and populism"
— Benjamin Charbit, Series Creator
Frequently Asked Questions
Who stars in the new El Zorro series?
Oscar-winning actor Jean Dujardin stars in the lead role.
What is the political theme of the new series?
The series reimagines Zorro as a French communist fighting against the rich and addressing populism.
Where will the series be available?
The series is set to premiere on AMC+.
