Channel 5 has acquired exclusive UK rights to Tut, a six-hour mini-series telling story of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.
The drama was commissioned by US channel Spike which, like Channel 5, is owned by Viacom. Tut is being described as the UK channel’s “most significant acquisition” since its change of ownership.
Shot entirely on location in Morocco, Tut tells the story of one of the most extraordinary rulers in human history, the Pharaoh Tutankhamun, his rise to power and his struggle to lead Egypt to glory, while his closest advisors, friends and lovers scheme for their own interests.
The series stars Oscar winner, Sir Ben Kingsley as Egyptian Prime Minister Vizier Ay and introduces Avan Jogia in the title role of Tut.
Other cast members include Sibylla Deen (‘Tyrant’), Alexander Siddig (‘Game of Thrones’), Kylie Bunbury (‘Under the Dome’), Peter Gadiot (‘Matador’), Iddo Goldberg (‘Salem’) and Nonso Anozie (‘Zoo’).
Tut will premiere on Spike in the U.S. on 19th July and will be shown on Channel 5 “shortly after”.
Channel 5’s Acquisitions Manager, Sebastian Cardwell, who brokered the deal said: ‘Tut is event television at its best. The series reveals the story behind one of history’s biggest figures and is filled with epic high drama. I’m sure it’ll be a hit with Channel 5 audiences.’