Elle Fanning is taking an “anti-historical ride” to 18th century Russia. According to Deadline, Hulu has ordered “The Great” to series. The “genre-bending” drama, from “The Favourite” co-writer Tony McNamara, will see Fanning playing Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia and the country’s longest-ruling female leader. The “Beguiled” actress is also executive producing.
The series will follow Catherine the Great in her rise to power and in her tumultuous relationship with Emperor Peter III of Russia (“The Favourite’s” Nicholas Hoult), whom she succeeded following a coup d’état. Catherine the Great, also known as Catherine II, was Empress from 1762-1796.
McNamara created and wrote “The Great.” He joins Fanning as an EP.
Catherine the Great is also the subject of an eponymous HBO/Sky miniseries. Expected sometime this year, the Helen Mirren-led project will focus on the later part of the Empress’ reign.
Fanning portrayed another trailblazing woman in Haifaa Al-Mansour’s “Mary Shelley,” a biopic about the “Frankenstein” author. “20th Century Women,” “I Think We’re Alone Now,” and “Galveston” are among her recent credits.
“The Great” will kick off production later this year and premiere in 2020. Hulu also ordered “Reprisal,” a femme fatale revenge tale starring Abigail Spencer (“Timeless”), to series, per Deadline. It is expected to premiere later in 2019.
