The Little Italian Hotel Adaptation in Development

ZDF Studios and BlackBox Multimedia have partnered to produce a six-part adaptation of Phaedra Patrick’s The Little Italian Hotel.

Adapted by writer Kay Stonham (Millie Inbetween, Life of Riley, My Family), the show will center on 50-year-old Ginny Splinters, whose advice show Ginny Listens is vying for the number one slot on the U.K.’s premier radio station and whose private life is equally glittering, with an upcoming luxurious anniversary celebration in Italy planned with her husband. During a live phone-in, however, a caller throws doubt on her husband’s faithfulness, and her perfect life comes crashing down.

Ginny goes on a journey of self-discovery accompanied by five equally heartbroken listeners, whose problems she rashly vows to solve.

The Little Italian Hotel was published in the U.K. and U.S. last year and has since sold in Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Lithuania. Patrick’s books have been translated into 25 languages worldwide, with four of them becoming USA Today bestsellers.

“We are delighted to partner with BlackBox Multimedia to bring this story to life for the small screen,” said Yi Qiao, Director Drama at ZDF Studios. “Romance, comedy, endearing characters and a beautiful setting, interspersed with insightful life lessons, combine to make this an ideal prime-time series for family audiences.”

Chiara Cardoso, managing director of BlackBox Multimedia, added, “When we came across The Little Italian Hotel, we knew instantly that this would make a great TV series. There are so many layers to this uplifting, warmhearted romantic comedy with its realistic undertone and satirical twist. It brings a refreshing comic framing to the personal growth/holiday-romance drama by challenging the notion that maintaining a high flying career and a glossy image are the keys to happiness. Add to that, its travel brochure nostalgic appeal and you have a captivating story that transports you to a sunnier world.”