Key Facts
- ✓ Prime Video's Scarpetta is an adaptation of Patricia Cornwell's best-selling Kay Scarpetta novels, premiering on March 11, 2026.
- ✓ The series utilizes a dual-timeline narrative, setting stories in both the current day and the late 1990s to explore the character's origins and present-day challenges.
- ✓ Nicole Kidman stars as Dr. Kay Scarpetta, with Rosy McEwan portraying a younger version of the character in the 1990s timeline.
- ✓ The ensemble cast includes Jamie Lee Curtis as Scarpetta's sister, alongside Ariana DeBose, Bobby Cannavale, and Simon Baker.
- ✓ Liz Sarnoff serves as the showrunner and writer, collaborating with executive producers including Kidman, Curtis, and author Patricia Cornwell.
- ✓ David Gordon Green directs five episodes of the series, which is produced by Amazon MGM Studios and Blumhouse Television.
A New Look at a Beloved Character
Prime Video has officially unveiled the first teaser art for its highly anticipated series Scarpetta, offering fans their initial glimpse into the world of the famed forensic pathologist. The announcement confirms the series will premiere on March 11, 2026, bringing Patricia Cornwell's best-selling novels to the screen in a new, multi-timeline format.
The series stars Nicole Kidman in the lead role of Dr. Kay Scarpetta, with Jamie Lee Curtis appearing as her sister. The adaptation promises to delve deep into the character's complex personal and professional life, exploring both the origins of her career and her return to her hometown decades later.
The Dual-Timeline Narrative
The series is structured around a unique narrative device, utilizing two distinct timelines to explore the character's evolution. Liz Sarnoff, the showrunner and writer, has crafted a story that runs parallel to the late 1990s and the present day. This allows each season to adapt two of Cornwell's novels simultaneously.
This structure provides a comprehensive view of Kay Scarpetta's journey. Viewers will witness her early days as a Chief Medical Examiner, establishing the foundations of her career. Simultaneously, the series will follow her as she returns to her hometown to reclaim her position, navigating a web of complex relationships and unresolved history.
- Current day timeline: Scarpetta returns home and reclaims her position.
- Late 1990s timeline: The beginnings of her career as Chief Medical Examiner.
- Simultaneous adaptation: Each season tackles two of Cornwell's books.
"Kay is a beloved character, and I wanted to make sure I did her story justice. As we had two storylines going on at once, it made for a wild ride!"
— Rosy McEwan, Actress
A Stacked Ensemble Cast
Beyond Kidman, the series boasts a formidable ensemble cast designed to bring the rich world of the novels to life. Jamie Lee Curtis plays a significant role as Scarpetta's sister, adding layers of familial drama and tension to the procedural elements.
The cast is further bolstered by Ariana DeBose, Bobby Cannavale, and Simon Baker. The production is a collaboration between Amazon MGM Studios and Blumhouse Television, with executive producers including Kidman, Curtis, Sarnoff, Cornwell, and Jason Blum.
Nicole and Rosy are two of the deepest most dedicated artists I’ve ever worked with. They made every moment of Scarpetta’s inner life... absolutely riveting.
Rosy McEwan takes on the pivotal role of the younger Kay Scarpetta. McEwan expressed feeling a "big responsibility" in portraying such a beloved character, aiming to do justice to the narrative established by Cornwell and expanded by Sarnoff.
Behind the Scenes
The creative team emphasizes a focus on the emotional depth of the characters alongside the mystery elements. Showrunner Liz Sarnoff described the collaboration with Kidman and McEwan as a "joy," highlighting their dedication to the role.
Sarnoff noted that the series aims to explore the inner lives of its female characters at two pivotal points in their lives. The goal is to provide a true insight into the world of forensic pathology while maintaining the human drama that drives the story.
I hope it will feel like a true insight into all the parts of working as a pathologist and beyond.
Director David Gordon Green is helming five episodes of the series, serving as both director and executive producer. The production team includes a mix of veteran producers from the film and television industries, ensuring a high-quality adaptation of the source material.
What to Expect
With its blend of high-stakes mystery, complex character drama, and a talented cast, Scarpetta is positioned to be a major release for Prime Video. The series promises to satisfy long-time fans of the novels while introducing the iconic character to a new audience.
Viewers can look forward to a deep dive into the forensic world of Kay Scarpetta when the series premieres. The dual-timeline approach ensures a fresh narrative structure that explores the full breadth of the character's life and career.
"Nicole and Rosy are two of the deepest most dedicated artists I’ve ever worked with. They made every moment of Scarpetta’s inner life - the moments that defined, destroyed, and ultimately delivered her - absolutely riveting."
— Liz Sarnoff, Showrunner
"I hope it will feel like a true insight into all the parts of working as a pathologist and beyond."
— Rosy McEwan, Actress
