Fox Channels picks up Starz/BBC Leonard Da Vinci drama

Fox International Channels has taken international pay TV rights to Da Vinci’s Demons, the upcoming drama from Starz and BBC Worldwide about Renaissance genius Leonardo Da Vinci.

Fox has taken first window pay TV rights to the eight-part show and will launch it across its network of pay channels in 120 territories from early 2013.

The series is written by Batman Begins and Flash Forward scribe David Goyer and relays the untold story of one the world’s greatest geniuses during his turbulent youth in Renaissance Florence. Goyer is also the series’ showrunner.

Sharon Tal Yguado,  senior VP of scripted programming at FIC said: “Following the incredible success we’ve had with The Walking Dead we were looking for a tentpole series that would be different in tone and story but equally powerful with audiences worldwide. Goyer’s vision of one of history’s most enigmatic characters knocked us off our feet. We are convinced Da Vinci’s Demons is a real game changer in the world of period dramas.”

The series is being shot in Wales and is in production. BBC Worldwide is distributing and retains all other rights outside the US, Canada and FIC territories.