The distribution company All3Media International has signed a deal for Lion Television’s upcoming factual series "Pompeii: The New Dig" as PBS joins the project, commissioned by BBC Two, as co-producer with Arte France and acquires broadcast rights for the US.
From the creators of Secrets of the "Saqqara Tomb" and "Saving Venice", "Pompeii: The New Dig" follows the biggest excavation of Pompeii in a generation. The 3x1 hour series, which will broadcast in 2024, was originally commissioned by BBC Two in the UK and is co-produced with Arte France, in association with All3Media International.
Told through cinematically filmed stories of discovery, with a compelling cast of archaeologists and experts, Pompeii: The New Dig is set to reveal a wealth of buried secrets and unsolved mysteries that are waiting to be discovered beneath the volcanic ash. With exclusive access to the present-day archaeological and forensic investigation, it also reveals new discoveries of what happened to named survivors, tracing their modern-day descendants living in Italy through an unprecedented genetic portrait of Pompeii. Remarkably, in the excavation, archaeologists uncovered a fresco that looked like a pizza. This artwork, dating back 2,000 years, was discovered in the Regio IX section of Pompeii’s archaeological park, near Naples, where pizza originated. It was found on a wall in what seems to have been a hallway of a house, possibly connected to a bakery.
Jennifer Askin, SVP North America at All3Media International, welcomed their new partners: "We’re delighted to welcome PBS onboard as co-producer and broadcaster for US on Lion Television’s latest project. Infused with Lion Television’s trademark cinematic values and immersive storytelling, 'Pompeii: The New Dig' will take us right to the heart of a moment in history that has always fascinated audiences around the world. And by ensuring local experts play a central role, Lion Television is bringing true authenticity to the series, giving viewers a unique opportunity to join the archaeologists as they unearth more thrilling finds and add even more depth to the incredible story of Pompeii and its people", stated.
Meanwhile, Diana El-Osta, Senior Director, Multiplatform Programming and Development, PBS underscored the historical significance of the series: “We’re thrilled to continue our relationship with the accomplished teams at both Lion Television and All3Media International and collaborate on such a captivating show. The recent excavation is unveiling valuable insights into Pompeii, showcasing there’s still much to discover. PBS viewers will get to join in on an intriguing 2000-year journey, spanning from Pompeii’s ancient homes to the present day, and we can’t wait for them to watch;" noted.