Nat Geo to Do Another Killing Adaptation

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Following on the success of Killing Lincoln, and on the heels of Killing Kennedy, National Geographic Channels is again teaming with Scott Free Productions to adapt a Bill O’Reilly novel, this time Killing Jesus.

The film is going to be based on Killing Jesus: A History, the recently announced book from O’Reilly with co-author Martin Dugard. The novel is to be published September 24. Production on the TV event will start this fall, with the special to premiere on National Geographic Channel in 171 countries and in 38 languages in 2014.

Killing Lincoln break records for National Geographic Channel. The network is also in pre-production on the film adaptation of Killing Kennedy.

“I am thrilled to once again be partnering with National Geographic Channels and Scott Free Productions on my next book,” said O’Reilly. “Jesus is the most famous person that has ever lived—and is worshipped today by more than 2.2 billion people. This story is not only rich with detail, controversy and drama, but also personal to so many people that I would not trust it to anyone else to bring to life on the screen.”
 
“O’Reilly has proven with Killing Lincoln and Killing Kennedy that the public is fascinated with the tragic tales of these renowned historical figures, and this is one of the most dramatic stories ever told. We are privileged to once again work with National Geographic Channel to bring Bill’s vision to the screen,” said Ridley Scott.
 
“With the tremendous success of Killing Lincoln, partnering with Bill O’Reilly on his next two blockbuster titles is a real thrill for us, and clearly something our audience craves,” said Howard T. Owens, the president of National Geographic Channel. “Scott Free Productions continue to be ideal partners as we work to increase our commitment to producing quality, smart, factual dramas and delivering authentic entertainment with substance.”