Starzplay and Sony Pictures Television team up on “XRey”

Starzplay, the premium international streaming service from Starz, and Sony Pictures Television announced they are developing an eight-part premium scripted series depicting the life and reign of King Juan Carlos I, King Emeritus, who suddenly abdicated in 2014 after a popular 40-year reign. The series will be shepherded by a world-class creative team led by Howard Gordon and Alex Gansa, who will executive produce the scripted adaptation through their overall deal with Sony Pictures Television. Glenn Geller, President of their production company, will also executive produce.

Gordon and Gansa will develop the series with Spanish production company Weekend Studio, who will produce the series in association with Sony Pictures Television International Production. “XRey” is based on the critically acclaimed smash hit Spanish podcast produced by Alvaro de Cózar and Toni Garrido for The Story Lab, and is the latest in a succession of high-profile titles Starzplay has secured since expanding into local language co-productions in Europe and Mexico last year.

"Anyone who knows me knows about my fascination with Spain – its people, its history, and its culture – and few stories in the 20th century have compelled me more than the life of King Juan Carlos I. Beyond the sweeping saga of his family’s exile, his ascension to the throne, and the palace intrigue that followed, it is an intimate story about a man caught between two worlds, whose personal sacrifice and love for the country eventually brought democracy to the Spanish people. I look forward to telling his story over many seasons,"  Howard Gordon said.

Superna Kalle, President of International Networks at Starz, added: “Our commitment to creating premium local language content for a global audience is unwavering and this innovative producing partnership with SPT, Weekend Studio, Story Lab, and an incredible creative team for ‘XRey,’ embodies Starzplay’s dedication to continuously enrich our offerings and explore new and provocative international stories”.