Prime Video Orders Two Seasons of “Scarpetta”
Prime Video has officially commissioned two seasons of “Scarpetta,” a mystery thriller adapted from Patricia Cornwell’s popular book series. The story centers around Kay Scarpetta, a Chief Medical Examiner who returns to her former position in Virginia, navigating complex professional and personal relationships. The series features a stellar cast, including Nicole Kidman as Kay, Jamie Lee Curtis as Dorothy, and Bobby Cannavale as Pete Marino.
Excitement from the Creative Team
Blumhouse Television and the creative minds behind “Scarpetta” are thrilled about the project. Vernon Sanders, head of television at Amazon MGM Studios, emphasized the long-standing appeal of Cornwell’s series and expressed pride in bringing “Scarpetta” to the small screen. Patricia Cornwell herself is eager about the series, noting the value of collaborating with such talented creatives.
Jamie Lee Curtis and Nicole Kidman Share Their Enthusiasm
Jamie Lee Curtis, who plays Kay’s sister and also serves as an executive producer, couldn’t contain her excitement, particularly about Kidman’s involvement. She highlighted the perfect partnership among the creative team and hinted at the thrilling nature of the series by warning, “there WILL be BLOOD.” Kidman, who has long been interested in the project, is excited to portray Kay, a character she holds dear, having read the books with her mother. She described the opportunity to work alongside Curtis and others as a dream come true.
Insight from the Showrunner
Showrunner Liz Sarnoff shared her personal connection to the “Scarpetta” books, having read them with her mother in the ’90s. She expressed excitement over bringing a “badass female ‘boss’ heroine” to life on screen, praising Cornwell’s storytelling for its complexity and addictiveness.
What This Means for the “Scarpetta” Series
Abundant Source Material
With 27 books in the “Scarpetta” series, the creative team has a wealth of material to draw from. Prime Video’s decision to order two seasons reflects their confidence in the project and suggests a long-term commitment. This extensive source material offers the potential to satisfy longtime readers while attracting new viewers.
A Talented Creative Team
Liz Sarnoff, known for her work on acclaimed series like “Lost,” “Deadwood,” and “Barry,” brings her expertise to “Scarpetta” as a writer, executive producer, and showrunner. Her impressive resume suggests she could help make “Scarpetta” another small-screen success. Additionally, with Blumhouse Television’s involvement, the series may explore elements of horror, aligning with Curtis’s tantalizing warning.
Our Take on Prime Video’s Decision
Potential Challenges for Nicole Kidman
This isn’t Hollywood’s first attempt to adapt Patricia Cornwell’s books. A film series starring Angelina Jolie was once planned but met with criticism, as fans felt Jolie was too young and didn’t physically match the character.
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The current adaptation, however, seems more promising, with Kidman and the creative team committed to bringing Kay Scarpetta to life. Unlike the previous film plans, this version appears poised for success over at least two seasons. Nevertheless, Kidman’s busy schedule, including her roles in successful series like Taylor Sheridan’s “Lioness” and “Big Little Lies” season 3, could pose a challenge. Hopefully, these commitments won’t hinder her work on “Scarpetta.”
Source: Prime Video