A brand new supernatural series, inspired by the expansive universe of author Anne Rice, has made a dramatic arrival on Netflix. The six-part thriller, Talamasca: The Secret Order, landed on the streaming platform on December 1, introducing UK audiences to a covert world of vampires, witches, and secret societies.
A Stellar Cast Led by a Transformed Star
The series features a glittering ensemble cast, but it is Elizabeth McGovern who delivers the most startling transformation. Best known to British audiences as the elegant Cora Crawley in Downton Abbey, McGovern is almost unrecognisable as Helen, a high-ranking figure within the shadowy Talamasca organisation. She has swapped her period drama persona and trademark dark brown hair for a striking bright blonde bob, marking a world away from her aristocratic roots.
She is joined by an impressive roster of talent including William Fichtner (The Dark Knight), Maisie Richardson-Sellers (Nine Perfect Strangers), and Celine Buckens (Showtrial). Jason Schwartzman (The Grand Budapest Hotel) also makes a guest appearance, adding to the show's high-profile credentials.
Plot: A Secret World of Supernatural Surveillance
The plot follows Guy Anatole (played by Nicholas Denton), a law graduate struggling to find his footing. His life takes an unexpected turn when he accepts a bribe to meet the leader of an occult group, only to discover this secretive order knows about a unique ability he possesses. This organisation is the Talamasca, a top-secret group dedicated to monitoring supernatural entities across the globe.
While set firmly within the Anne Rice universe that fans know from Interview with the Vampire and The Mayfair Witches, this series charts new territory. It is not directly adapted from any of Rice's books, a fact confirmed by executive producer Mark Johnson, who oversees AMC's Anne Rice Immortal Universe. This means even devoted fans will find the story's twists and turns unpredictable.
Launching Ahead of a Major Vampire Return
The release of Talamasca: The Secret Order on Netflix comes at a strategic time for fans of gothic horror. It arrives just ahead of the highly anticipated third season of Interview with the Vampire, slated for a 2026 release. That season will be rebranded as The Vampire Lestat and will see Sam Reid return as Lestat de Lioncourt, exploring his life as a 1980s rock star.
For viewers seeking a fresh entry into the world of Anne Rice, or simply a gripping supernatural spy drama with a stellar British cast, Talamasca: The Secret Order offers a compelling new binge-watch. All six episodes are available to stream on Netflix now.
