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Starz unveils new series and cast members: A deep dive into the latest TV sensations
Starz hit the Television Critics Assn. press tour Thursday with a new tagline, “We’re All Adults Here,” and a slew of exciting announcements about new and returning series. Among the highlights were the greenlight for “Fat Joe Talks,” hosted by the “What’s Luv” hip-hop star, and the acquisition of U.S. and Canada broadcast rights to “Sweetpea,” a new drama starring and executive produced by Ella Purnell.
The network also revealed new cast members for its upcoming spinoff “Spartacus: House of Ashur,” the latest series in the “Spartacus” universe. Let’s delve into these announcements and explore what makes them so intriguing.
Fat Joe Talks: A fresh take on celebrity interviews
“Fat Joe Talks” promises to be a unique addition to the talk show landscape. The 30-minute series will follow Fat Joe as he leads conversations around a wide range of newsworthy topics, traveling throughout the United States to meet cultural icons in their environments.
Embassy Row is producing the series, with Fat Joe serving as an executive producer alongside SpringHill’s LeBron James, Maverick Carter, Philip Byron, and Jamal Henderson, and Embassy Row’s Michael Davies.
“‘Fat Joe Talks’ is an exciting foray into talk, and who better than Joe—a legend in and of himself—to drive provocative conversations that tap into the zeitgeist and matter to our audience,” said Kathryn Busby, president of original programming for Starz.
For those eager to get a taste of what’s to come, check out the trailer here: https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/fat-joe-talks.
Sweetpea: A darkly comedic tale of revenge
In “Sweetpea,” Ella Purnell plays Rhiannon Lewis, a young woman whose life takes a dramatic turn. Living an anonymous life, Rhiannon is pushed over the edge and loses control, transforming into a woman capable of anything. The six-part series, based on the C.J. Skuse novel, will premiere in 2024 on Starz in the U.S. and Canada.
The show is produced by See-Saw Films and Fanboy in association with Sky Studios. Kirstie Swain, Krissie Ducker, Laura Jayne Tunbridge, and Selina Lim are executive producers, with Ella Jones directing and also serving as an EP.
“We’re excited to partner again with Ella Purnell and Sky Studios on such a fresh, boundary-breaking story,” said Alison Hoffman, president of domestic networks, Starz. “This darkly-comedic tale of revenge is sure to thrill viewers, as is Ella’s performance as a woman who finds her voice and claims her agency in ways that are devious and shocking.”
For a sneak peek, watch the trailer here: https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/sweetpea.
Spartacus: House of Ashur: Expanding the gladiator universe
The “Spartacus” universe is set to expand with “Spartacus: House of Ashur,” featuring a stellar cast that includes Graham McTavish, Tenika Davis, Jamaica Vaughan, Ivana Baquero, Jordi Webber, Claudia Black, India Shaw-Smith, and Leigh Gill.
Graham McTavish, known for his roles in “Outlander,” “The Witcher,” and “House of the Dragon,” joins the cast as Ashur’s Doctore, who trains the gladiators. Tenika Davis, from “Jupiter’s Legacy,” will play the first female gladiator in the “Spartacus” universe, described as “a fierce warrior driven to surpass her male counterparts and earn her freedom.”
Joining them are Jamaica Vaughan as Hilara, a young, elevated house slave deeply in love with Ashur; Ivana Baquero as Messia, a house slave in love with Hilara; Jordi Webber as Tarchon, a brash and headstrong gladiator; Claudia Black as Cossutia, a politician determined to keep Ashur in his place; India Shaw-Smith as Viridia, Cossutia’s daughter; and Leigh Gill as Satyrus, the leader of the Brothers Ferox, gladiators from a rival Ludus.
Nick Tarabay reprises his role as Ashur, with production underway in New Zealand.
For more details and a glimpse of the action, watch the trailer here: https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/spartacus-house-of-ashur.
Reflecting on the future of Starz
Starz’s latest announcements signal a bold and diverse future for the network. With “Fat Joe Talks,” “Sweetpea,” and “Spartacus: House of Ashur,” Starz is not only expanding its content but also pushing the boundaries of storytelling. These new series promise to captivate audiences with their unique narratives and compelling characters.
As we look forward to these upcoming releases, it’s clear that Starz is committed to delivering fresh, innovative content that resonates with viewers. Whether it’s through thought-provoking talk shows, darkly comedic dramas, or epic gladiator tales, Starz continues to redefine the television landscape.
The journey of these new series is just beginning, and it will be fascinating to see how they unfold and impact the world of entertainment.
