Key Facts
- ✓ Starz has secured the U.S. distribution rights for the five-part series 'Amadeus.'
- ✓ The series features Will Sharpe in the role of Mozart and Paul Bettany as Salieri.
- ✓ It is an adaptation of Peter Shaffer's 1979 play of the same name.
- ✓ The screenplay was written by Joe Barton, the creator of 'Black Doves.'
- ✓ The series premiered on the Sky network in the United Kingdom on December 21.
Quick Summary
The acclaimed drama Amadeus is set to make its American debut. Starz has officially acquired the U.S. rights to the five-part series, which explores the legendary rivalry between composers Wolfgang Mozart and Antonio Salieri.
Produced by Sky, the series has already captivated audiences in the United Kingdom. Its arrival on Starz marks a significant expansion for the prestigious production, bringing a fresh interpretation of a classic story to a new international audience.
The Production & Cast
Will Sharpe and Paul Bettany lead the cast in this dramatization of one of music history's most famous conflicts. Sharpe portrays the prodigious but eccentric Mozart, while Bettany takes on the role of his rival, the court composer Salieri.
The series is a modern adaptation of Peter Shaffer's iconic 1979 stage play. The screenplay was crafted by Joe Barton, the creator behind the television series Black Doves, bringing a contemporary sensibility to the historical narrative.
- Five-part limited series format
- Based on the celebrated 1979 play
- Adapted by Joe Barton
- Produced for Sky's television network
Broadcast History
The series first premiered on Sky in the United Kingdom on December 21. Its debut marked the culmination of a major production effort for the network, offering a new take on the familiar story of genius and envy.
With the U.S. acquisition now confirmed, the series is poised for a broader international rollout. The move highlights the growing trend of transatlantic partnerships in television production and distribution.
The Story Behind the Series
The narrative centers on the complex relationship between the two composers. It delves into themes of talent, jealousy, and the pressures of artistic creation within the rigid structures of the 18th-century court.
Shaffer's original play has been a cornerstone of theater for decades, inspiring the 1984 Academy Award-winning film. This new television adaptation aims to explore the psychological depths of the characters with the extended runtime of a limited series.
Key Details
The acquisition by Starz ensures that American viewers will have access to this high-profile production. The deal brings together a talented cast and a respected creative team for a U.S. audience.
Viewers can anticipate a story that balances historical drama with intense personal conflict. The series promises to be a significant addition to the network's programming lineup.
- Starring: Will Sharpe and Paul Bettany
- Network: Starz (U.S.)
- Original Network: Sky (U.K.)
- Format: Five-part series
Looking Ahead
The arrival of Amadeus on Starz represents a major television event for music and drama enthusiasts. It bridges the gap between classic storytelling and modern television production.
As the U.S. release date approaches, anticipation builds for how this new interpretation will be received by American audiences. The series stands as a testament to the enduring power of the Mozart and Salieri story.
