Julianna Margulies to Lead MGM+ Period Romantic Comedy

MGM+ has ordered an eight-episode romantic comedy based on Daisy Goodwin’s novel The American Heiress, with Julianna Margulies set to star as Isabella Cash. Production is scheduled to begin in the United Kingdom this month, and the series is set to premiere on MGM+ in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Latin America.

Set in 1893, the story follows Isabella as she takes her daughter, Cora, to England in pursuit of an aristocratic title. Cora believes she loves Teddy, an American artist, but a hunting accident leaves her waking at the castle of the 12th Duke of Wareham, upending her expectations. She must navigate English society while deciding where she belongs.

Goodwin, whose novel was also published as My Last Duchess, will adapt the book and serve as showrunner and executive producer. Margulies will also executive produce. Other executive producers include Stacey Snider, Damian Keogh, Stella Merz and Kirstie Macdonald. Joanna Crow is producing, and Gemma Wright is co-producing.

Catherine Morshead, Sandra Goldbacher and Edward Hall will direct. Fifth Season is co-producing the series with MGM+ Studios and will handle worldwide distribution. MGM+ executive Michael Wright described the project as a blend of characters, social politics and romantic ambition. Goodwin said the story explores mothers and daughters, social obligations and the pursuit of meaning amid wealth.