Apple TV+ unveiled an official premiere date for its highly-anticipated adaptation of The Essex Serpent.
The limited drama series, which features an all-star cast, including Claire Danes and Tom Hiddleston, will premiere the first two of its total six episodes on May 13. Following the series' launch, subsequent episodes will then be released every Friday until it concludes. At the time of writing, Apple TV+ has yet to reveal a trailer for the series but viewers can expect their first peek at the show in the coming months.
Based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Sarah Perry, The Essex Serpent is set in 1897 and follows London widow Cora Seaborne (Danes) who travels to Essex in pursuit of a mythical sea creature. Despite forming an unconventional bond with the village's vicar (Hiddleston), Cora is accused of bringing a curse upon the town after an unfortunate tragedy. Directed by Clio Barnard and written by Anna Symon, it's currently unknown how faithfully the show will adapt the acclaimed novel.
While fans of Perry's book are excited to see Danes step into the lead role, The Essex Serpent was initially meant to star Keira Knightley. The beloved Pirates of the Caribbean actress had to depart from the project before filming, citing difficulties with childcare brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Danes was confirmed as the series' new lead in February 2021, followed closely by the reveal that Hiddleston was also set to feature.
While fans of Hiddleston may be familiar with the actor's charming aesthetic, The Essex Serpent represents a significant departure from arguably his most iconic role. Many audiences will likely recognize the actor as the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Loki, a character he was played several times since his big-screen debut in 2011. The mischievous Asgardian god recently headlined his own self-titled series on Disney+. Hiddleston's compelling performance and the show's impact on the greater MCU multiverse were praised by fans and critics, earning it a second season. It's currently unknown when fans will see Hiddleston's Loki again.
Starring Claire Danes, Tom Hiddleston, Clémence Poésy, Frank Dillane, Hayley Squires and Michael Jibson, The Essex Serpent premieres on Apple TV+ on May 13.
Source: Apple TV+