Banijay Rights period drama Marie Antoinette set for US coronation on PBS

Marie Antoinette will air on PBS next spring

MIPCOM: US pubcaster PBS has picked up French historical drama Marie Antoinette from distributor Banijay Rights.

The eight-part period drama will have its North American premiere on the pubcaster in spring 2023, following a deal announced on the first day of Mipcom here in Cannes.

The acquisition marks the latest international deal for French pay TV operator Canal+’s original commission, which was produced by Banijay Studios France, Capa Drama and Les Gens.

Banijay Rights announced pre-sales to UK public broadcaster BBC Two and BBC First in Australia prior to Mipcom.

Created and written by Deborah Davis (The Favourite), Marie Antoinette tells the story of the modern and avant-garde young French queen, played by Emilia Schüle (Ku’damm 56/63).

Joining Davis in writing the drama is Louise Ironside (The Split), Avril E Russell (All on a Summer’s Day) and Chloë Moss (Run Sister Run). The series is directed by Pete Travis (Bloodlands) and Geoffrey Enthoven (Children of Love).

Marie Antoinette is produced by Claude Chelli and Margaux Balsan for Capa Drama, Stéphanie Chartreux for Banijay Studios France and Christophe Toulemonde for Les Gens.