Syfy has acquired the basic cable rights from FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) for all 26 episodes (both seasons) of the critically acclaimed series Merlin, including the United States television premiere of Season Two, which has never aired on American television. Merlin joins the Syfy primetime lineup in April 2010.Thomas Vitale, Executive Vice President, Programming and Original Movies, Syfy, said, A viewer favorite after only one season, Merlin will be a strong addition to our schedule this spring. We expect its enthralling imaginative vision, engaging young talent, and rich production values to resonate with our audience.
FME’s Lisa Honig, SVP Program Distribution, North America commented, Merlin has been a great success internationally with fans in more than 180 countries. Partnering with Syfy to continue that engagement in the US after a successful first series is a win-win for everyone.
Season One of Merlin aired on NBC (Summer 2009). Both seasons 1 and 2 aired on BBC One in the UK (2008-09). BBC has commissioned a third season which will air in September 2010. FME also handles brand licensing and home entertainment for Merlin.
ABOUT MERLIN
An imaginative new twist on a timeless legend, Merlin is set in the mythical city of Camelot, before history began. It’s a fantastical realm of legendary beasts and mysterious peoples, and a dangerous world where magic has been banned by the ruthless tyrant, Uther Pendragon.
When Merlin, a young man gifted with extraordinary magical powers, arrives in the kingdom, he quickly makes enemies, including the heir to Uther’s crown, the headstrong Prince Arthur. But guided by Uther’s wise physician, Gaius, Merlin is soon using his talents not just to survive but also to unlock Camelot’s mystical secrets.
As he does, Merlin discovers that his destiny and that of the kingdom’s young leader in waiting, Arthur, are inextricably linked.
Merlin stars Colin Morgan as Merlin, Bradley James as Prince Arthur, Anthony Head as King Uther, Richard Wilson as Gaius, Katie McGrath as Morgana and Angel Coulby as Gwen.
Merlin is executive produced by Julian Murphy and Johnny Capps for Shine Television.
