Starz Acquires ‘Amadeus,’ Mozart Series with Will Sharpe and Paul Bettany
Starz has secured the U.S. rights to the highly anticipated series “Amadeus,” which explores the intense rivalry between composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri. The series premiered on Sky in the United Kingdom on December 21, featuring Will Sharpe in the role of Mozart and Paul Bettany as Salieri.
Overview of “Amadeus”
This five-part series is crafted based on Peter Shaffer’s acclaimed 1979 play. Joe Barton, known for his work on “Black Doves,” adapted the screenplay. The narrative delves into the complexities of Mozart’s life as he navigates his artistic journey and personal struggles.
Key Cast Members
- Will Sharpe as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
- Paul Bettany as Antonio Salieri
- Gabrielle Creevy as Constanze Weber, Mozart’s wife
- Rory Kinnear as Emperor Joseph
- Lucy Cohu as Cecilia Weber
- Jonathan Aris as Leopold Mozart
- Ényì Okoronkwo as Da Ponte
- Jessica Alexander as Katerina
- Hugh Sachs as Von Strack
- Paul Bazely as Von Swieten
- Rupert Vansittart as Rosenberg
- Anastasia Martin as Aloysia Weber
- Nancy Farino as Josepha Weber
- Olivia-Mai Barrett as Sophie Weber
- Viola Prettejohn as Princess Elizabeth
- Jyuddah Jaymes as Franz Süssmayr
Synopsis
Set in 18th-century Vienna, the series begins as 25-year-old Mozart seeks creative freedom. He encounters pivotal figures in his life, including his loyal wife Constanze and the religious court composer Salieri. Salieri’s envy of Mozart’s genius intensifies over the years, leading to a profound personal obsession.
Acquisition and Expectations
The acquisition of “Amadeus” was facilitated by NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution. According to Alison Hoffman, president of Starz Networks, this series perfectly fits Starz’s lineup of original programming. She emphasized its character-driven approach to a riveting historical rivalry that captivates audiences.
Fans of period dramas can look forward to the series’ U.S. debut on Starz later this year. It promises to deliver a spectacular depiction of the artistic and personal conflicts that defined Mozart’s tumultuous relationship with Salieri.
