Idris Elba is involved in an effort to bring his critically-acclaimed BBC series “Luther” to American television.
Although the British series aired for three seasons on U.S. cable channel BBC America immediately following its BBC runs, Fox has given a put-pilot commitment for an American remake of the Emmy-nominated drama, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.
Fox’s take is based on the format created by Neil Cross and centers on John Luther (Elba), a detective dedicated to solving crimes who finds his commitment to his duties both a blessing and a curse.
Cross is on board to write the script and executive produce Fox’s version, which hails from 20th Century Fox Television, Chernin Entertainment and original producers BBC Worldwide Productions. Chernin’s Peter Chernin, Katherine Pope, BBC’s Jane Tranter and Julie Gardner and Elba are also attached to executive produce.
Now for the bad news… Elba, who has been nominated for three outstanding lead actor in a miniseries Emmy Awards for playing the title character, is not currently slated to have an on-screen role.
“Luther,” which ran for three seasons and 14 total episodes from 2010-2013, netted Elba a Golden Globe win in 2011 as well as a pair of NAACP prizes. The series has also received eight Emmy nominations, including two for outstanding miniseries.
“Luther” is also a critical favorite and one of the BBC’s highest-rated original series.
The Fox remake comes after Cross has been public about wanting to create a feature film prequel of the series.
“We do want a new audience, but we also want to keep the fans interested, so we have to tread very carefully,” Elba said of doing a “Luther” film.
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