Starz Sets Eleanor of Aquitaine Series

Lionsgate TV and Colin Callender’s Playground are developing a slate of drama series inspired by “extraordinary women of history” for Starz, beginning with an adaptation of Alison Weir’s acclaimed biography Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Life and its companion novel, Captive Queen.

“This slate of series will focus on lesser-known but undeniably exceptional female historical figures while continuing the exploration of fierce characters in history,” said Christina Davis, president of programming for Starz. “Alison Weir’s novels are the perfect jumping-off point for this collection of series from Playground, who are known for their sophisticated storytelling.”

“We’re excited to partner with Starz and Lionsgate to bring Alison Weir’s acclaimed biography and novel of Eleanor of Aquitaine to television,” said executive producers Scott Huff and David Stern, who will oversee development of the series for Playground. “Eleanor presided over a magnificent, progressive court filled with scandal and intrigue, and we’re thrilled with Susie’s bold and provocative take on this fascinating story.”

Susie Conklin (A Discovery of Witches, Cranford) will write and executive produce the Eleanor of Aquitaine series. “I’m thrilled at the opportunity to bring Eleanor’s story to life–the drama and adventures she experienced are truly epic,” she said. “I’m also captivated at how a woman who lived over 800 years ago can be so strikingly modern. She’s determined to live her life on her own terms, and the way she goes about that is extraordinary.”