Netflix has announced a new historical drama series titled Alexander, bringing together the creators of the popular shows Heated Rivalry and Ozark. Jacob Tierney, creator and showrunner of the hockey romance series Heated Rivalry, is teaming up with Jason Bateman, known for his roles in Arrested Development and Horrible Bosses, who will serve as executive producer.
Based on Annabel Lyon's novel The Golden Mean, the series is described as a 'ruthless' period drama. According to Netflix, the story begins as the Athenian empire crumbles and the philosopher Aristotle arrives in Macedonia to tutor a volatile young prince, Alexander. The narrative explores palace intrigue, forbidden love, brutal war, and ruthless ambitions, with their unlikely friendship shaping an empire and altering history.
Jacob Tierney expressed his excitement, stating: 'I fell in love with Annabel Lyon's book The Golden Mean years ago and have been dreaming of telling this story ever since.' Jinny Howe, head of US and Canada scripted series at Netflix, added: 'Jacob Tierney is one of the most exciting, in-demand creative voices working today, and we are thrilled to work with him on Alexander.'
The novel The Golden Mean, published in 2010, was Lyon's debut and has been praised for its 'measured, burnished prose' and 'marvellously reimagined' portrayal of Alexander the Great's youth. The series aims to reimagine the classic power struggle between mentor and protégé with a raw, modern energy.
Alexander the Great, son of King Philip II of Macedon and Queen Olympias, was renowned for his charisma and brutal military strategies, conquering a vast empire before his death at age 32. Ozark is currently streaming on Netflix, while Heated Rivalry is available on Sky and NOW.
