"The Young Pope" is drama series collaboration between HBO, Sky Atlantic and Canal+. Featuring Jude Law as a power-hungry, chain-smoking, cynical and conniving leader of the Catholic Church, the show is expected to premiere on Jan. 15, 2017 on the cable network. The series has already launched in European territories like Italy, Germany and France last October.
"The Young Pope" is from the mind of filmmaker Paolo Sorrentino who wrote and directed all 10 episodes, which is presented in both English and Italian languages. Jude Law plays Pope Pius XIII or Lenny to his allies, the first American pope and the youngest to hold the post as he is in his early '40s. He loves Cherry Coke for breakfast and expresses himself in hip lingo.
He is guided by a nun, Sister Mary (Diane Keaton), who knew and raised him as a convent orphan. Sister Mary regards the young pope like her own son, and thus, she is aware of his insecurities and weaknesses. His convent brother and mentor Cardinal Michael Spencer (James Cromwell) also knows the real man behind the holy post.
There's a new pope in town. #TheYoungPope premieres January 15 on #HBO. pic.twitter.com/ViOPOs2Q3o
— HBO (@HBO) December 5, 2016
"The Young Pope" shows a religious leader who is actually far from being holy. The Independent describes the fictional drama as the papal "House of Cards" as it is rife with politics and power-grabbing.
While it's yet to premiere in the United States, "The Young Pope" creator is ready to work on its second season, Variety reports. If confirmed, filming Season 2 will be scheduled for the summer of 2018, which gives the show's cast and crew plenty of time to prepare.
Meanwhile, the Vatican is reportedly aware of the series and it has earned high ratings in Italy. The Scotman reports that the Catholic Church is keeping its opinions mum about the show, despite its controversial take on the Papacy.
