By Paul Rolston
BBC Drama and Shine Limited have announced filming has begun for Merlin, a brand new drama for BBC One.
British actors Richard Wilson and Anthony Head will star alongside Colin Morgan and Bradley James in the forthcoming 13-part series which will be aired in Autumn 2008.
This adaptation of the mythical world of Camelot features the classic character Merlin as a young wizard who is on the brink of magical greatness, only to be disrupted by his constant clashes with a young King Arthur.
Merlin is produced by an Emmey Award- winning production team in cooperation with Shine Limited.
Creative Director of Shine Julian Murphy said: “The BBC are reknowed for their high quality drama and we are delighted to be working with them on such an ambitious project.
“The story of Merlin is amuch loved classic”.
Controller of BBC fiction Jane Tranter added: “Director James Hawes’s bravura vision for this piece is perfectly suited to the adventure we are all embarking upon.
“Merlin is a wonderfully ambitious and beautifully crafted series which we’re sure will enchant families this year”.
The series, flimed in Wales, England and France will transmit in Autmn 2008 on BBC One, joining titles such as Little Dorrit, Apparitions starring Martin Shaw and Wallender starring Belfast actor Kenneth Branagh.
