Fox to Premiere US Version of BBC Series 'Luther': Star Idris Elba Set to Produce, But He Will Appear on Screen?
Fox is now setting its sights on a remake of the BBC series "Luther," following a trend of adapting U.K. hits into American dramas.
After this year's "Broadchurch" and "Gracepoint," the network has paid a large sum for the pilot commitment to the new version, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The Emmy-nominated British version created by Neil Cross focuses on dedicated detective John Luther, played by Idris Elba, who often gets tossed between doing what's best for Queen and country and what actions will help his loved ones.
Elba has been nominated for three Emmy Awards for outstanding lead actor in a miniseries but is not currently scheduled to appear on-screen with Fox's "Luther."
Cross is said to be creating the script and serve as executive producer on the Fox take. Elba, BBC's Jane Tranter and Julie Gardner and Chernin Entertainment's Peter Chernin and Katherine Pope are also listed as executive producers of the adaptation.
"Luther" ran for three seasons between 2010 and 2013, for a total of 14 episodes. During that time, Elba was awarded a Golden Globe in 2011 and more than one NAACP awards.
Overall, the series garnered eight Emmy nominations, two of which in the category of outstanding miniseries. The show is one of BBC's highest-rated original series.
However, Fox picking up an American version of the series is not the first overseas remake for "Luther." A Russian reboot called "Klim" was picked up in February for Channel One on BBC Worldwide, planning on eight episodes set to air next year.
Cross has also written a prequel novel, "The Calling," and has publicly talked about wanting to make a feature film with the characters.
"We do want a new audience, but we also want to keep the fans interested, so we have to tread very carefully," Elba said on the possibility of a "Luther" film in the future.
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