Starz has acquired the U.S. rights to Sky's five-part series 'Amadeus,' which stars Will Sharpe as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Paul Bettany as Antonio Salieri. The drama, based on Peter Shaffer's 1979 play, explores the composers' rivalry and premiered in the U.K. on December 21. It is set to debut on Starz later this year.
The series 'Amadeus,' adapted by Joe Barton, the creator of 'Black Doves,' delves into the intense professional and personal rivalry between Mozart and Salieri in 18th-century Vienna. It follows 25-year-old Amadeus as he arrives in the city, seeking creative freedom after his days as a child prodigy. His path crosses with Constanze Weber, whom he later marries, and the devout Salieri, whose envy grows as Mozart's genius challenges his own beliefs and status.
The narrative spans 30 years, evolving from rivalry to obsession and ending in Salieri's murder confession and bid to claim part of Mozart's legacy. Gabrielle Creevy portrays Constanze, bringing loyalty to the role amid Mozart's personal struggles and court skepticism.
Alison Hoffman, president of Starz Networks, praised the acquisition: "‘Amadeus’ is a perfect fit for our original series lineup — a bold, character-driven reimagining of one of history’s most intoxicating rivalries. With Will Sharpe, Paul Bettany and Gabrielle Creevy leading an extraordinary ensemble, the series captures the passion, envy and genius at the heart of Mozart’s world. Audiences continue to be drawn to Starz because of the power of our premium period dramas, and ‘Amadeus’ delivers that in spectacular form."
The deal was brokered by NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution. The ensemble cast includes Rory Kinnear as Emperor Joseph, Lucy Cohu as Cecilia Weber, Jonathan Aris as Leopold Mozart, and others such as Ényì Okoronkwo, Jessica Alexander, and Hugh Sachs in supporting roles.
This acquisition aligns with Starz's focus on premium period dramas, bringing the U.K. production to American viewers after its Sky premiere.
