A+E Embarks On First International Scripted Co-Pro

A+E Networks International has started development on its first international scripted co-production, Miss Scarlet and The Duke, a crime drama set in 19th-century London.

Kate Phillips (Peaky Blinders, The Crown, upcoming Downton Abbey feature film) stars as Eliza Scarlet, the first-ever female detective in London in the 19th century. The series is created and written by Rachael New (Grantchester, The Mallorca Files, EastEnders).

The project originated with Element 8 Entertainment’s producing team, including Patty Ishimoto (Rogue) along with Todd Berger (Wynonna Earp) and Patrick Irwin (The Fall) to exec produce. A+E Networks is currently negotiating deals in Australia, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S. with the aim of going into production by the end of Q1 2019.

Richard Tulk-Hart, managing director of international content sales and co-productions at A+E Networks, said: “A+E Networks International is very excited about Miss Scarlet and The Duke, which has fantastic writing by Rachael New. New’s script drew in Kate Phillips, and we have incredible exec producers signed on: Patty Ishimoto, Todd Berger and Patrick Irwin. This is a thrilling series about which we are very proud, with an incredibly strong female lead and a captivating storyline.”