John Ibrahim drama, local commissions for Paramount+

Upcoming miniseries The Last King of the Cross, based on an autobiography by John Ibrahim, will premiere in Australia on forthcoming streamer Paramount+.

A recent investors announcement in the US suggested the “organised crime drama” would premiere in 2021 -which is unlikely given writing is underway with Kieran Darcy-Smith (Jack Irish, Wolf Creek, Wish You Were Here, The Duel, Easy Money).

The three part series is being produced by former Endemol Shine boss Mark Fennessy.

Rumours have linked Zac Effron’s name to the project, though it hasn’t been confirmed.

Beverley McGarvey, Chief Content Officer & EVP, ViacomCBS Australia & New Zealand, tells TV Tonight, there are several local originals commissioned for Paramount+ in Australia.

“The local originals strategy is something that’s actually incredibly important, because we see it as our point of difference.

“We have the benefit of doing local originals but also we have a phenomenal content pipeline coming out of from Showtime and Paramount+ in the US. The John Ibraham (project) is based on his book, and the way that it will be produced is kind of as a ‘family saga’ with big production values.”

Casting is currently underway.

Paramount+, a relaunch of 10 All Access, will launch later in 2021.

Updated.