For decades, Patricia Cornwell’s Scarpetta series has captivated readers with its forensic-heavy approach to crime-solving, anchored by the brilliant and determined Dr. Kay Scarpetta.
Now, the beloved character is finally making her way to the screen, thanks to Prime Video’s highly anticipated adaptation.
With two seasons already greenlit, and stars like Nicole Kidman and Jamie Lee Curtis taking the lead, Scarpetta is set to bring forensic drama and deeply personal conflicts to life in ways that mirror the novels’ intensity.
From casting news to production details, here’s everything you need to know about this exciting new series based on one of crime fiction’s most iconic characters.
What is Scarpetta About?
The upcoming series Scarpetta focuses on Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a forensic pathologist who returns to her former role as Chief Medical Examiner in Virginia.
Not only does she solve complex murder cases, but she also navigates personal conflicts — especially with her sister, Dorothy.
Their fraught relationship, filled with unresolved family tensions and deep-seated grudges, adds a rich layer of drama to the crime-solving aspect of the show.
The series is adapted from Patricia Cornwell’s widely popular Scarpetta novels, first introduced with Postmortem in 1990. Cornwell’s portrayal of Scarpetta as a sharp, capable forensic scientist has captivated readers for decades.
Cornwell herself is thrilled about the adaptation, saying in a press release, “I’m beyond excited that this is finally happening…I’ve always been a huge fan of Jamie Lee Curtis and Nicole Kidman.”
“Their wanting to do this is humbling and simply awesome,” she added. “This has been worth waiting for, and I’m so looking forward to the show.”
Who Stars in Scarpetta?
Scarpetta boasts an impressive cast.
Nicole Kidman will play Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a role she has long sought to bring to the screen.
Reflecting on her long journey to bring Dr. Kay Scarpetta to the screen, she stated, “I’ve been pursuing Scarpetta for nearly twenty years, going back to when it was intended to be a feature.”
Kidman expressed her excitement about finally stepping into the role, adding, “I cannot wait to inhabit Kay Scarpetta and am so thankful to Patricia Cornwell for entrusting me with her.”
Alongside Kidman is Jamie Lee Curtis as Dorothy, Scarpetta’s complicated sister.
Curtis expressed her enthusiasm for playing Dorothy in the Scarpetta series and for working alongside Nicole Kidman.
“I’m particularly excited that Nicole Kidman will finally bring her to life,” Curtis stated, reflecting on Kidman’s long-standing ambition to portray Kay Scarpetta.
Their dynamic as sisters in the series adds an emotional depth to the adaptation, with Curtis looking forward to telling this story with Kidman.
Curtis also touched on the excitement she believes the show will generate for both fans of the books and new viewers alike.
“I know the ardent fans of the books will be very happy, and the new audience will be compelled by the characters, crimes, and mysteries that are the trifecta of Patricia’s masterful storytelling,” she added.
In true Curtis fashion, she ended her remarks with a bit of drama, saying, “…and a warning… there WILL be BLOOD.”
Supporting cast members include Bobby Cannavale (Human Resources) as Pete Marino, a former detective who works closely with Scarpetta
Simon Baker (The Mentalist) will play FBI profiler Benton Wesley, and Ariana DeBose (Westworld) will play Lucy, Scarpetta’s tech-savvy niece.
Additionally, Rosy McEwen (The Alienist) and Jake Cannavale (Nurse Jackie) will portray younger versions of Kidman’s and Cannavale’s characters.
Other cast members include Janet Montgomery (New Amsterdam) as Janet, Lucy’s wife; Sosie Bacon (Mare of Easttown) as Abby Turnball, a prize-winning reporter.
Stephanie Faracy (The Goldbergs) will play Maggie, Scarpetta’s inherited assistant from her predecessor, and Mike Vogel (Sex/Life) will play city attorney Bill Boltz.
Who’s Behind Scarpetta?
The Scarpetta series boasts an impressive team of producers and a talented showrunner to bring the books to life.
Liz Sarnoff, known for her work on Barry and Lost, is the series’ writer, executive producer, and showrunner.
The show is being produced by Blumhouse Television in collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios, alongside production companies Blossom Films and Comet Pictures.
Nicole Kidman also produces through her Blossom Films banner, while Jamie Lee Curtis brings her expertise through Comet Pictures.
With Jason Blum and David Gordon Green joining the team, Scarpetta is in the hands of experienced creators who are no strangers to high-stakes drama and suspense.
How Many Episodes Will Scarpetta Have?
While the number of episodes for the first season has yet to be confirmed, Prime Video has already ordered two full seasons.
With 28 books in the Scarpetta series, there is more than enough material for future seasons if the show proves successful.
Each season could potentially focus on different major cases from the books, keeping viewers engaged with fresh and suspenseful storylines.
When Will Scarpetta be Released?
The series is set to debut on Prime Video in 2025. However, a specific release date has not yet been provided. With two seasons already in the works, fans can expect plenty of content to dive into once the show begins streaming.
Is There a Trailer for Scarpetta?
There is no trailer for Scarpetta, but the buzz is already building.
In 2023, when news of the adaptation first surfaced, Jamie Lee Curtis appeared on SiriusXM to discuss the series and her excitement for the project, which you can watch below.
Fans are eager to catch a glimpse of the adaptation, and with the show expected to premiere in 2025, teasers and trailers should start to roll out as we get closer to the release date.
Alright, TV fanatics! Are you excited about Scarpetta?
Let us know what you think about the upcoming series — will it live up to the hype?
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