Tom Fontana, the acclaimed creator behind the HBO prison drama “Oz,” is set to develop and showrun a new television series exploring the complexities of the Vatican. The project will be based on Emanuele Midolo’s upcoming novel, “The Devil’s Business,” with Fabel Entertainment having secured the rights to the book.
The Chenab Times has learned that “The Devil’s Business” is slated for publication in June 2028 by Century. The novel centers on Archbishop Paul Marcinkus, a prominent American clergyman who served as the president of the Vatican Bank during a tumultuous period. Marcinkus was a controversial figure, notably linked to the 1982 death of Pope John Paul I and the collapse of the Ambrosiano Bank in Italy, events that cast a long shadow over the financial dealings of the Holy See.
Fontana’s involvement signals a significant undertaking for the series, bringing his proven track record in crafting intense, character-driven dramas to the ecclesiastical setting. Known for his meticulous research and unflinching portrayal of institutional power and its human consequences, Fontana’s approach is expected to delve into the intricate political, financial, and spiritual dynamics within the Vatican.
The series aims to draw from the narrative of Midolo’s novel, which is anticipated to shed new light on the controversial tenure of Archbishop Marcinkus. The Archbishop, who died in 2021, was a central figure in Vatican financial affairs for decades and was often referred to as “The Smiling Pope Killer” due to his alleged involvement in the events surrounding Pope John Paul I’s sudden death just 33 days into his pontificate.
Fabel Entertainment’s acquisition of the book rights marks a strategic move to tap into a story rich with intrigue and historical significance. The Vatican, with its unique blend of religious authority, political maneuvering, and historical secrets, offers a fertile ground for dramatic storytelling, a territory Fontana has navigated with considerable success in his previous work.
While details regarding the cast, production timeline, and specific network or streaming platform remain undisclosed, Fontana’s commitment to showrunning suggests a robust creative vision for the series. His past work on “Oz” and “The Borgias” demonstrates a capacity to handle complex narratives involving powerful institutions and moral ambiguity.
The novel “The Devil’s Business” is expected to provide the foundational narrative, exploring the intersection of faith, finance, and power. The life of Archbishop Marcinkus, marked by both his significant influence within the Vatican and the controversies that surrounded him, offers substantial material for a compelling television drama.
The series is poised to become a significant addition to the genre of prestige television, potentially drawing comparisons to other Vatican-centric dramas and historical epics. The combination of a compelling source novel, a seasoned showrunner, and a subject matter steeped in mystery and historical debate positions the project for considerable anticipation within the industry.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
