Universal Television has acquired the rights to Omid Scobie and Robin Benway's upcoming novel Royal Spin for series development, following a competitive bidding war that drew interest from nine studios. The project marks Scobie's fiction debut and will be co-created with TV writer-producer Emily Fox, who will also write the pilot script and serve as showrunner.
The series follows Lauren O'Connell, an American press agent who leaves her high-octane career in Washington D.C. to take a communications job at Buckingham Palace. With the British monarchy reeling from scandals, she is tasked with revamping the palace's press office and improving the royal family's public image. The story explores culture clashes, romance, and the challenges of navigating an institution steeped in tradition.
Scobie, a journalist and author known for his books Finding Freedom and Endgame, conceived the story. Benway is a bestselling author of young adult fiction. The trio will executive produce alongside Fox. Vivian Cannon, Universal TV's EVP of Drama Development, described the project as 'a deeply entertaining exploration of the world’s enduring fascination with the royal family.'
The fish-out-of-water premise draws parallels to Meghan Markle's experience as an American entering the royal family. Fox's previous credits include The Watchful Eye and Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist. The book was unveiled at the London Book Fair in March and quickly attracted interest from multiple buyers.
