I love Rita, the Danish TV series, with unreserved delight. Now it’s coming to Showtime in the U.S. That’s FANTASTIC NEWS! I reached out to series creator Christian Torpe about the news and have a couple of exclusive comments for you.
The creator of the original Danish series, Christian Torpe, will write and executive produce. The popular series has already been adapted in France and the Netherlands. Bringing it to Showtime is a logical move.
Series creator Christian Torpe told me, “I am incredibly excited to bring Rita to the US. Moving that character to an American culture and to an American school system is such an interesting creative challenge – and it feels so timely.”
Rita is a teacher. She’s unconventional and unbending to authority. She’s a single mother. She’s funny, she’s full of heart, she’s a great mom. She confronts important issues. She’s also a bit of a mess. I can’t wait to see how this character is adapted for the American audience. Mille Dinesen starred in the original Danish version.
Lena Headey is the American Rita
Lena Headey is on board to star as Rita. She’s also an executive producer. She’s a wonderful choice and should be perfect as the unconventional Rita.
When asked about Lena, Christian Torpe said, “Bringing Lena on board is a dream. She is such an incredible actress. We met a couple of times and not only did we completely share vision for the show, she also relates deeply to the character. I know she will do an incredible job with bringing Rita to life. Oh, and Mille loves her as well.”
It’s early days for the American Rita because all the pieces aren’t in place yet. When more is known about when you can see the pilot or when trailers are released, I’ll let you know.
This is going to be so good! I can’t wait to see it. Congratulations to Christian Torpe and everyone involved in making it happen.
I’m suggesting some hashtags: #RitaUS or #RitaSHO.
If you haven’t watched the Danish series, you must. I’ve written many posts on this blog about Rita if you need a review. Netflix has all 4 seasons available now.
you know i love me some Rita, but i’m not thinking this show translates well to American culture. good that Mr. Thorpe is involved – i dont think he was involved in the first attempt to make the show here – but i think this will be more than an “interesting creative challenge.” i sincerely hope i am wrong.
I’m looking forward to finding out. I’m thinking he will keep Rita’s anger and rebellion and sense of fairness intact, but everything else will have to change. I hope she’ll still have a sidekick as interesting as Hjørdis, and a gay son, and a free spirit. Oh, and a few plaid shirts.