FremantleMedia North America is partnering with Random House Studio and Dancing Ledge Productions on a deal with Brazilian author Paulo Coelho to develop the first-ever TV drama series based on his works. The project will explore themes and characters from his novels The Devil and Miss Prym, Brida and The Witch of Portobello. Coelho is best known as the author of The Alchemist, which has sold more than 200 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than 80 languages.
According to the companies involved, the as-yet-untitled TV series "follows a young priest who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption--ostracized by his church, a fugitive from the law, and hunted by a powerful crime family. Meanwhile, the CIA agent chasing him discovers mysterious powers and a more profound connection to the priest than she ever thought possible." Coelho will introduce each episode and discuss its themes.
"There has never been a more prolific, thought-provoking and socially engaged author as Paulo Coelho," said Dante Di Loreto, president of scripted entertainment, FremantleMedia North America. "His stories make us look at the world differently, tapping into our true selves to further discover our place within the journey for hope, inspiration and social change."
Laurence Bowen, CEO of Dancing Ledge Productions, commented: "Hundreds of millions of people have discovered in Paulo Coelho's writing a universality that feels deeply personal. Here we want to celebrate his vision and weave together elements of his work into a gripping new epic journey. We couldn't be more excited."