NEW YORK –Syfy announced it has acquired the international hit series Sinbad from BBC Worldwide America, Sales & Distribution. One of the most enduring stories of all time, the imaginative and fantastical quest of Sinbad will premiere on Syfy in April 2013.

Starring newcomer Elliot Knight in the title role, the 12-part series follows Sinbad’s sea-bound journey after he is forced to flee from his home town of Basra. Surviving a violent and magical storm, Sinbad embarks on an emotional journey to embrace his destiny.

Naveen Andrews (Lost) stars as Sinbad’s nemesis, Lord Akbari.  The series also features appearances by Sophie Okonedo (Hotel Rwanda, The Secret Life of Bees), Timothy Spall (Harry Potter, The King’s Speech) and Dougray Scott (Hitman, Mission Impossible: II).

On board “The Providence,” Sinbad is joined by an intriguing band of travelers including Norwegian sailor Gunnar (Elliot Cowan), the jewel-thief Rina (Marama Corlett), and aristocrat Nala (Estella Daniels). Completing the ship’s complement is the Cook (Junix Inocian) and the cerebral doctor Anwar (Dimitri Leonidas).

In making the announcement, Chris Regina, Senior Vice President, Programming & Original Movies, Syfy, said: “When mystical meets muscle, anything can happen in this exciting, action-packed series. With its strong production values and rich story, Sinbad will be a terrific addition to our primetime lineup.”

Matt Forde, EVP Sales and Co-Productions, BBC Worldwide America, said: “This new version of a timeless classic is going to take American audiences by storm. Syfy is the perfect home for Sinbad.”

Sinbad is an Impossible Pictures Production for British Sky Broadcasting in association with BBC Worldwide. The deal was brokered by Jemma Adkins, Senior VP Sales and Co-Productions, BBC Worldwide America. 

Source: Syfy