CBC bags Balcer’s Arctic drama

Canadian pubcaster CBC is on board a thriller from NBCUniversal-owned Lark Productions and Keston International that follows the aftermath of a brutal murder in an Arctic town.

The Council has been set up by Emmy Award-winning writer and showrunner René Balcer (Law & Order: Criminal Intent) and explores how a ritualistic killing is connected to an international conspiracy to control natural resources.

“There isn’t a writer who is a better fit for this show than René,” said JoAnn Alfano, exec VP of scripted programming for NBCU International Television Production.

“He has a unique ability to weave complex mysteries with character-based drama. His personal connection to the story and knowledge of the Arctic and Inuit culture will bring a unmatched level of authenticity.”

Louise Clark, Erin Haskett, Trevor Walton and Denis Coyne are attached as executive producers, with NBCU International Television Production retaining all distribution rights.