GKTV, Valhalla and FX pact for pirate drama

The creators of The Walking Dead and Camelot are joining forces to produce a series about seventeenth century pirates, Port Royal.

The one-hour scripted series will be set in Jamaica and chronicle the island’s colourful history during a period in which it was a safe haven for pirates, corrupt politicians and traders.

The show will be based on an idea from Gale Ann Hurd, who is in demand after her work on hit series The Walking Dead. The production and international channels arm of Pay TV channel FX, which launched the zombie series internationally, is a copro partner.

The TV division of movie producer Graham King’s GK Films, which made the Camelot series for Starz, is also a coproducer. King will be an executive producer.

“I’ve long been a fan of FX’s original programming, and I’m thrilled Port Royal has found a home with them,” said creator, Gale Anne Hurd. “I couldn’t be more excited to be working with Fox International Channels again after our unbelievable success with The Walking Dead.”