The latest tales from "Empire"

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ABC Press Release

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

"EMPIRE," A SWEEPING, NEW SUMMER DRAMA SERIES, WILL PREMIERE JUNE 28 ON THE ABC TELEVISION NETWORK Released by ABC
"EMPIRE," A SWEEPING, NEW SUMMER DRAMA SERIES, WILL PREMIERE JUNE 28 ON THE ABC TELEVISION NETWORK

A Stellar International Cast Features Jonathan Cake and Santiago Cabrera Trudie Styler Also Appears in the Lavish Six-Hour Series
"Empire," an epic six-hour summer drama series from the executive producers of the Academy Award-winning "Chicago," will have a special two-hour premiere, TUESDAY, JUNE 28 (9:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. The sweeping limited drama series, filmed entirely in Rome and South Central Italy, focuses on Julius Caesar's nephew, Octavius, who is forced into exile after Caesar's murder, and a fictional disgraced gladiator, Tyrannus, who has sworn to protect him.

The other four one-hour episodes are slated to air on successive Tuesday nights, all from 10:00-11:00 p.m., ET.

"Empire" features a stellar international cast led by Jonathan Cake ("First Knight," Hallmark's "Noah's Ark") and Santiago Cabrera ("Haven"), with guest and recurring stars including Dennis Haysbert ("24") and Trudie Styler ("Friends," "Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister"). It is one of the most lavish and technically complex series ever to air on ABC in primetime. "Empire" is being executive-produced by award-winning producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron ("Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows," "The Beach Boys: An American Family," "Brian's Song," ABC's "Annie," "Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella" and the Oscar-winning "Chicago"), multiple award-winner Tony Jonas ("Queer as Folk," "Leap Years"), Chip Johannessen ("24," "The X-Files,") and Thomas Wheeler ("The Prometheus Project," "The Mission"), who is also the series creator.

The time is 44 B.C. and the Conqueror Julius Caesar (Colm Feore, "Chicago," "And Starring Pancho Villa as Himself"; currently seen as Cassius in "Julius Caesar" on Broadway) returns from triumphs in Spain to a neglected Republic and a corrupt Senate drunk with power. Though he's hailed as a hero by the masses, the Senate is wary of Caesar's plans that might place him in a position of ultimate power. Brutus (James Frain, "24," USA Network's "Spartacus," "Arabian Nights") and Cassius (Michael Maloney, Kenneth Branagh's "Hamlet," "Painted Lady") try to enlist the help of Marc Antony (Vincent Regan, "Troy," "Joan of Arc") in overthrowing Caesar, but Antony is loyal to Caesar and refuses. A terrible conflict looms and the fate of an empire will fall to one man - a gladiator named Tyrannus.

Tyrannus (Jonathan Cake), Rome's finest warrior, is undefeated in the arena and considered a champion among men. A slave since he was a young man, Tyrannus impresses Caesar with his fighting prowess and his popularity, and with his dedication to Rome. Caesar offers him freedom in return for his service and friendship. However the Senate puts up a vicious fight for power and manages to separate Caesar from Tyrannus' protective grasp by sending the gladiator to one last match to the death. Cassius and Brutus have Tyrannus' son, Piso, kidnapped. Tyrannus rushes to his son's rescue and kills the kidnappers, only to realize that the abduction is a diversion. He hurries to Caesar's side, but it is too late. His absence results in Brutus successfully leading a group of conspirators in assassinating the great conqueror. As he is drawing his last breath, Caesar swears Tyrannus to an oath to protect his successor, Octavius (Santiago Cabrera), his 18-year-old nephew.

Tyrannus and Octavius are forced into exile to protect the young man from those who want to sever Caesar's bloodline once and for all. They are joined by Agrippa (Chris Egan, upcoming feature film "Alpha Male," Australian series "Home & Away"), a young soldier, and by Camane (Emily Blunt, upcoming feature film "My Summer of Love," "Warrior Queen"), a Vestal Virgin from the powerful religious Order whose members are being hunted down for trying to save Octavius. Together they will help Octavius fulfill his destiny. He leaves Rome an impetuous boy, but will Octavius return as Emperor?

Production scoured south-central Italy for locations to represent Caesar's Roman Republic, including the ancient roads of the Apian Way, Aqua Appia, the 2,000-year-old aqueduct responsible for the first running water, Romulus' Fourth Century tomb, the pine trees and marketplaces of Ostia Antica and the beachside caves of Anzio, a famous disembarkation point during World War II. The production recreated a piazza/arena for the gladiator fights, the Forum, including the Senate, piazza and various roads, and the interior of Marc Antony's villa, which boasts 72,000 fake Roman bricks, 11,000 roofing tiles and 16,000 square feet of mosaic floor covering - all on the 270-acre back lot at Cinecitta Studios, formerly Roma Studios and, prior to that, the once famous Dino DeLaurentis Studios.

Over 6,000 yards of fabric were gathered from India, Germany and Italy and painstakingly colored with 320 pounds of dye from fresh herb extracts, replicating the process from ancient Roman times. The small army of wardrobe and props personnel also provided 150 sets of handmade women's jewelry, 700 pair of boots and sandals from Pompeii and Tunisia and breast plates originally used in the productions of "Cleopatra" and "Ben Hur."

Additionally, award-winning sword masters, husband-and-wife team Dan Speaker and Jan Bryant ("Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World," "Hidalgo," "Hook") took on the challenge of duplicating the brutish style of the Roman gladiators of over 2,000 years ago, working one-on-one with the stars of "Empire," especially Jonathan Cake, who portrays Tyrannus.

"Empire" stars Jonathan Cake as Tyrannus, Santiago Cabrera as Octavius, Emily Blunt as Camane, Chris Egan as Agrippa and Vincent Regan as Marc Antony. Recurring or guest stars include Dennis Haysbert as Magonius, Trudie Styler as Servilia, James Frain as Brutus, Colm Feore as Julius Caesar, Michael Byrne as Cicero, Michael Maloney as Cassius, Fiona Shaw as Fulvia, Orla Brady as Atia, Graham McTavish as General Rapax and N'Deaye Ba as Nila.

Empire" is being directed by John Gray ("Brian's Song," "Helter Skelter," "Martin and Lewis"), Kim Manners ("X-Files") and Greg Yaitanes ("Line of Fire," "Cold Case," "CSI Miami"). Craig Zadan, Neil Meron, Tony Jonas, Chip Johannessen and series creator Tom Wheeler are the executive producers. The series is produced by Taranus LTD., in association with Storyline Entertainment, and is distributed by Touchstone Television.

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Official EMPIRE Bio for James Frain

28 September * note from webmaster ~~

We recently heard from our friend Nat - the webmaster of the fansite dedicated to Vincent Regan who plays Marc Antony in Empire, that she received an official Bio for Mr. Regan, and she suggested we do the same! We just made the request of Touchstone's publicity person Erin, and received the following message , complete with new Biography and photo:

Here is James’ bio. We still don’t have an airdate yet so we won’t be doing any publicity until then, but we do have some press banked from when they were in production, like a TV Guide feature.

JAMES FRAIN

Brutus on the ABC Television Network’s “Empire”
James Frain portrays Roman Senator Marcus Brutus, one of the key conspirators in the plot to assassinate Julius Caesar.

The eldest of eight children born to a stockbroker father and teacher mother, Frain was born in Leeds, Yorkshire and raised in Essex. He was bitten by the acting bug early; after seeing ABC’s “The Six Million Dollar Man,” he wanted to emulate Lee Majors. He participated in school plays, but it wasn’t until after laboring in numerous jobs, such as waiting tables, theater ushering and working at building sites, that he realized he could pursue acting as an actual profession. After earning a degree in drama from the University of East Anglia, Frain enrolled in London’s Central School of Speech and Drama. While there, he was discovered by Sir Richard Attenborough, who directed him in his feature film debut alongside Anthony Hopkins in the 1993 romantic drama, “Shadowlands.”

Since that memorable debut, Frain has portrayed a number of unforgettable film characters, notably the leading role of Kenny in Britain’s gangster drama, “Nothing Personal,” for which he earned a Best Actor nomination at the Venice Film Festival; Daniel Barenboim, the conductor husband of Jacqueline du Prè in the Oscar-nominated drama, “Hilary and Jackie;” the pivotal role of the Spanish Ambassador in the Oscar-nominated “Elizabeth,” with Cate Blanchett and Joseph Fiennes; Ben Affleck’s double-crossing buddy in the thriller “Reindeer Games”; Natalie Portman’s love interest in “Where the Heart Is”; and the evil Chief Magistrate in the action adventure, “The Count of Monte Cristo,” co-starring James Caviezel, Guy Pearce and Richard Harris. Other feature credits include Julie Taymor’s Shakespearean drama, “Titus,” starring Anthony Hopkins and Jessica Lange; “Red Meat” with Lara Flynn Boyle; “The Mill on the Floss” with Emily Watson; the Pierce Brosnan adventure, “Robinson Crusoe”; “Loch Ness” with Ted Danson and Joely Richardson; “Sunshine” opposite Ralph Fiennes; and foreign productions “Vigo,” “What Rats Won’t Do” and “An Awfully Big Adventure,” with Hugh Grant.

Also a prominent presence on television, Frain has appeared in numerous miniseries and television films. He was cast in the leading role of Lorimer Black in the well-received A&E drama, “Armadillo;” starred with Donald Sutherland and Alec Baldwin in director John Frankenheimer’s “Path to War;” voiced the role of Doubting Thomas in ABC’s animated story of Jesus, “The Miracle Maker”; and appeared with Ian McKellen and Alan Rickman in the HBO production of “Rasputin.” Miniseries roles include David, one of the gladiators, in USA Network’s “Spartacus,” and Schahzenan in ABC’s fantasy adventure, “Arabian Nights,” with Mili Avital and John Leguizamo. In the United Kingdom he was seen in “Prime Suspect 3” with Helen Mirren and “The Buccaneers,” co-starring Carla Gugino and Mira Sorvino.

James recently completed filming with Paul Walker and Jessica Alba on the MGM action adventure feature, “Into the Blue.” He can also be seen playing a sleazy Pilates instructor with a sexual addiction in an improvisational comedy for the Trio Network entitled “Brilliant But Cancelled: Pilot Season.”

In addition to his screen work, Frain boasts an impressive theatrical resume, appearing in productions with the Royal Court Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Off-screen, his diversions include photography, writing and his new Boston terrier. Recently married, Frain and his bride divide their time between London and Los Angeles.

PERSONAL INFORMATION
HOMETOWN............ Leeds, Yorkshire (born), Essex, England (raised)
BIRTHDATE............... March 14

-- 2004-05 --

There we have it - still no airdate for the series, however ......this is not your usual Frain biography! We now learn officially what we had heard earlier this year, that James Frain is recently married! CONGRATULATIONS! MAZEL TOV!! Many years of happiness to Mr. and Mrs. Frain -- and their little dog too!

Many thanks again to Erin at Touchstone and Nat for her suggestion!

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In early August, we first made contact with the PR department at Touchstone Televison. Thanks to Carol's kind persistence, she received the following email from Touchstone's Erin:
Thank you for your interest in “Empire.” At this time we do not have an airdate. I don’t know if the website will be juicy but ABC.com will have information on the show. We have no late night talk show appearances planned at this time as we don’t have an airdate but we hope to have some of the actors make the rounds. There will be an article in TV Guide and many of the other papers and magazines have said they would do something when we air. There are no more episodes beyond the original 6 but you never know – if it does great in the ratings I wouldn’t be surprised if they ordered more. I believe James is in all six episodes, I assume he will do publicity – he seemed like a really nice guy, and I have no idea if he would be included if there were more episodes. I hope this answered your questions.

Best, Erin Felentzer Director, Publicity

So, that's a nice bit of info!

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This news is from a Variety article dated July 20 --
ROME -- Flames whipped through Roma Studios Wednesday, virtually destroying the set and production equipment for ABC's upcoming limited series "Empire."

For complete article -- read moreF

~ ~ ~
"Empire" centers on the fictional character Tyrannus (Jonathan Cake), Caesar's bodyguard and confidant. When Brutus (James Frain) and fellow senators assassinate Caesar (Victor Garber), Tyrannus promises that he will protect the dying emperor's nephew, Octavius (Santiago Cabrera). They flee Rome to protect Octavius from those who want to end Caesar's bloodline, aided by a soldier (Christopher Egan) and a young woman (Emily Blunt).

The current status of the series is that it is now six episodes (instead of eight), and while it has still not announced an exact schedule date, it is slated to appear on ABC sometime mid-season (early 2005 - or during November sweeps at the earliest). They have announced choices for directors of the six episodes. They include Helmer John Gray, Kim Manners and Greg Yaitanes.

There have been some rises and falls in this modern day Roman epic on it's road to ABC airtime. These waves have included executive shake-ups at ABC, budget woes and even Roman battles for locations, cast, wardrobe, props and extras! Read more about this current epic -- F

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Here's the press release from April:
April 26, 2004

PRODUCTION HAS BEGUN ON "EMPIRE," A SWEEPING, NEW LIMITED DRAMA SERIES AIRING ON THE ABC TELEVISION NETWORK NEXT SEASON
Jonathan Cake and Santiago Cabrera Star

Colm Feore and Trudie Styler Also Appear in the Lavish Eight-Episode Series

Production has begun in Rome on "Empire," a sweeping new limited drama series from the executive producers of the Academy Award-winning "Chicago." The period drama focuses on Julius Caesar's nephew, Octavius, who is forced into exile after Caesar's murder, and a fictional disgraced gladiator, Tyrannus, who has sworn to protect him. The series is slated to air during the 2004-2005 season on the ABC Television Network.
The one-hour, eight episode series will be one of the most lavish and technically complex ever to air on ABC in primetime. "Empire" is being executive-produced by award-winning producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron ("Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows," "Meredith Willson's The Music Man," "Brian's Song," ABC's "Annie," "Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella" and ABC's comedy series "It's All Relative"), Tony Jonas (TV's "Lost at Home," "Queer as Folk"), Chip Johannessen ("24," "The X-Files,") and Thomas Wheeler ("The Prometheus Project," "The Mission"), who is also the series creator.

The time is 44 B.C. and the Conqueror Julius Caesar (guest star Colm Feore, "Chicago," "Paycheck") returns from triumphs in Spain to a neglected Republic and a corrupt Senate, drunk with power. Though he's hailed as a hero by the masses, the Senate is wary of Caesar's plans that might place him in a position of ultimate power. Brutus (James Frain, "Spartacus," "Arabian Nights") and Cassius attempt to enlist the assistance of Marc Antony (Vincent Regan, "Troy," "Joan of Arc") in overthrowing Caesar, but Antony is loyal to Caesar and refuses. A terrible conflict looms and the fate of an empire will fall to one man - a gladiator named Tyrannus.

Tyrannus (Jonathan Cake, "First Knight"), Caesar's bodyguard and confidant and Rome's finest warrior, is undefeated in the arena and considered a champion among men. A slave since he was a young man, Tyrannus impresses Caesar with his fighting prowess and his popularity, and with his dedication to Rome. Caesar offers him freedom in return for his service and friendship. However the Senate puts up a vicious fight for power and manages to separate Caesar from Tyrannus' protective grasp by sending the gladiator to one last match to the death. His absence from Caesar's side results in Brutus successfully leading a group of conspirators in assassinating the great conqueror. As he is drawing his last breath, Caesar swears Tyrannus to an oath to protect his successor, Octavius (Santiago Cabrera), his 18-year-old nephew.

Tyrannus and Octavius are forced into exile to protect the young man from those who want to sever Caesar's bloodline once and for all. They are joined by Agrippa (Chris Egan), a young soldier, and Camane (Emily Blunt), a Vestal Virgin from the powerful religious Order whose members are being hunted down for trying to save Octavius. Together they will help Octavius fulfill his destiny. He leaves Rome an impetuous boy, but will Octavius return as Emperor?

"Empire" stars Jonathan Cake as Tyrannus, Santiago Cabrera as Octavius, Emily Blunt as Camane, Chris Egan as Agrippa and Vincent Regan as Marc Antony.

Recurring or guest stars include Colm Feore as Caesar, Trudie Styler as Servilia, James Frain as Brutus, Michael Brynes as Cicero, Orla Brady as Atia, Graham McTavish as Rapax, N'Deaye Ba as Nila and Fiona Shaw as Fulvia.

Empire" is being directed by John Gray ("Brian's Song," "Helter Skelter," "Martin and Lewis"), Kim Manners ("X-Files") and Greg Yaitanes ("Line of Fire," "Cold Case," "CSI Miami"). Craig Zadan, Neil Meron, Tony Jonas, Chip Johannessen and series creator Tom Wheeler are the executive producers. The series is produced by Taranus LTD. in association with Storyline Entertainment and distributed by Touchstone Television.

Touchstone Television Media Relations: Erin Felentzer (818) 460-6642

Okay, now the only question is, is Colm Feore still involved? In the latest cast listings, it appears that Victor Garber ("Alias", "Music Man") has the role of Julius Caesar. Ohhhhh Carol..................

June 22, 2004:

EMPIRE (ABC) - Dennis Haysbert ("24") has signed on to guest star in the network's upcoming six-hour limited series. He'll play fictional retired general Magonius, "a political ally of Caesar's who becomes a mentor to the young Octavius, Caesar's nephew who is forced into exile after Caesar's murder," according to a network press release. Haysbert is expected to film his role in July.

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According to a June news page on the Italian site for casting agency - Studio T srl - James Frain's latest project as Brutus in the upcoming ABC series EMPIRE is well under way. The news page reports that episodes 4 and 6 are finished, episodes 1 and 2 are currently being filmed and episodes 3 and 5 will be completed between July and August. So, we trust that between now and August, James and company are enjoying a fruitful summer of work and fun in beautiful Rome!

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FROM WRITEMOVIES.COM: Thursday, June 3, 2004

The Empire Strikes Gray
Helter Skelter writer-director John Gray on board for two episodes of ABC's Empire.

By Lisa Johnson

Helmer John Gray has just signed on to direct two episodes of ABC's Roman drama Empire. This will reunite him with producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, who last worked with Gray on the CBS biopic Martin & Lewis. They also worked together on the remake of Brian's Song.

Empire is a six-episode miniseries that tells the story of Caesar's teenage nephew Octavius and his quest for control of Rome. The project is currently in production in Rome. Zadan, Meron, Tom Wheeler and Chip Johannessen are executive producing.

Gray has been doing a lot of work for CBS of late, writing and directing last month's CBS remake of Helter Skelter. His credits also include the miniseries A Place for Annie and Haven. The latter two won Humanitas Awards.

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Toga epics are reborn as two filmed in Italy
By The Associated Press
Friday, May 14, 2004

ROME -- Ancient Roman commoners trembled with excitement at the arrival of Mark Antony, shoving to get near the general as he strode under a triumphal arch.

Then the moment passed. The plebeians sparked up cigarettes, slipped on shades and sipped bottled water. An old-time epic feel has hit Rome (the modern one) with the return of swords and sandals in two big-budget TV series shooting here, one a joint HBO/BBC production and the other for ABC.

Shrieks for "the 40 Roman soldiers!" ricocheted around the set of HBO's "Rome" during a recent visit. "Turn off your cell phones!" production assistants bellowed. "Don't stand in the shot with that bottled water!"

Until recently, the Roman Empire had fallen, as far as Hollywood was concerned. Producers were skittish about sinking cash into classical epics when the public didn't seem terribly interested.

Then "Gladiator" (2000) made a fortune and the ancient epic sprouted anew: Brad Pitt stars as Achilles in "Troy" opening today; Oliver Stone's biopic on Alexander the Great, "Alexander," opens later this year; and now, these two series.

The more expensive is HBO's "Rome," whose first season of 12 episodes is budgeted at roughly $75 million. ABC's "Empire" has planned eight episodes for a reported $30 million.

Entertainment publications have bubbled with talk of competition between the two -- Variety wrote of a struggle to find enough helmets, spears and chariots. This week, Variety and the Hollywood Reporter said "Empire" might cut the number of episodes or even cancel the project after a shakeup of top ABC executives, while saying competition with "Rome" wasn't helping.

Asked about this report, ABC said only that "Empire" remains in production.

In any case, the two series seem to have set off with similar tastes. At least one actor, James Purefoy, who plays Mark Antony in "Rome," says he was approached by both productions.

"There's no sense of competition," Purefoy insisted. "I think we're going for very different markets, to tell the truth." And what, exactly, are those markets?

"I think I'd better not answer that," he replied. "I know what the difference is because I've read them both. Suffice to say this is just more my cup of tea."

The tea, however, seems to have been brewed with a similar pot, or at least with a similar plot.

Both series begin around the same time -- HBO's "Rome" in 51 B.C., and ABC's "Empire" in 44 B.C. Both feature Mark Antony, Julius Caesar, and his nephew Octavian, who rose to become the first Roman emperor, Augustus.

Both tell history in part through the eyes of lowly Romans who get tied up with the future emperor -- two soldiers in "Rome," and one gladiator in "Empire." Both productions chose relatively little-known British actors for the main roles.

HBO's "Rome" was first to start shooting, in March, at the legendary Cinecitta Studios, which has been the site of toga classics such as 1959's "Ben Hur," and of late was the set for "The Passion of the Christ" and "Gangs of New York."

Using five acres of backlot, production designer Joseph Bennett re-created parts of the Forum, as well as markets, villas and plebeian homes, in some cases with material from the leftover "Gangs of New York" set.

ABC's "Empire" is at the smaller Roma Studios, which also saw the odd epic during the genre's heyday in the 1950s and '60s, notably John Huston's "The Bible" (1966).

"Empire" began filming a month after "Rome," but promised to hit the small screen first. ABC said its first episode was slated to appear later this year, while HBO's air date is June 2005.

In a statement, the network described its "Empire" production as "one of the most lavish and technically complex ever to air on ABC in primetime."

"Empire," whose directors include TV veterans Kim Manners ("The X-Files") and Greg Yaitanes ("CSI: Miami"), is apparently gambling on attracting fans of "Gladiator," with its main character described as "Rome's finest warrior ... undefeated in the arena and considered a champion among men."

ABC said producers here were not available to discuss the series.

Meanwhile, "Rome," whose first episodes are by British director Michael Apted ("The World Is Not Enough"), is styling itself as an earthy drama, neither soap opera nor "Gladiator II."

Still, it was certainly "Gladiator" that made productions like these feasible.

"It became much more palatable once that film happened," said "Rome" star Kevin McKidd. "The amount of stuff that's going on at the moment is testament to that."

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A May 18th update on zap2it.com:

ABC's 'Empire' May Stand After All
HOLLYWOOD (Zap2it.com) - - ABC is planning to stick with its limited series "Empire" despite budgetary bloat and some behind-the-scenes shuffling. The show's run is likely to be reduced, however.

The network has decided to keep shooting the series, which is set in the Roman Empire in the days following Julius Caesar's (Victor Garber, "Alias") assassination. Its order will probably be cut back from eight to six episodes, however, to contain cost overruns.

Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the dollar and the euro and inaccurate projections of "Empire's" budget led ABC to consider pulling the plug on the series, which focuses on Caesar's nephew Octavius (Santiago Cabrera) and gladiator Tyrannus (Jonathan Cake), who flee Rome following Caesar's death to protect the emperor's bloodline.

The network's new executive team likes what it has seen in dailies of the production, according to the Hollywood trade papers, which helped keep "Empire" going. That fact was important, as the project's biggest boosters were the now-departed Susan Lyne and Lloyd Braun.

The series' producers, which include Craig Zadan and Neil Meron ("The Reagans," "Life with Judy Garland"), made the offer to reduce the number of episodes.

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An earlier article with similar info from Variety.com:
Television
Posted: Wed., May 12, 2004, 10:00 pm PT

Sun doesn't set on ABC show 'Empire' Net cuts episode order from eight to six
By MICHAEL SCHNEIDER

ABC's "Empire" has struck back: Net has opted to keep the gladiator- themed series in production, despite serious cost concerns.But to shave the limited series' price tag, net has pulled back its order from eight segs to six.

That may seem like a setback for the project, but producers had feared that ABC might scrub it altogether (Daily Variety, May 5).

Instead, Touchstone TV insiders said Alphabet execs were pleased after screening a series of dailies from the project, which has been shooting in Rome since mid-April.

"It's a very happy ending," one source said.

Scribe Thomas Wheeler also reconceived "Empire" as a six-episode series, tightening up storylines in the process.

As a result, producers Storyline Entertainment and Touchstone will be able to drop costs by eliminating two hours from the project.

That will still keep the series' pricetag at around $30 million. "Empire" had been facing serious cost overruns due to a number of hiccups, including a weak dollar-Euro exchange rate and a line producer (later fired) who incorrectly estimated the show's budget.

With that budget spread out over six episodes, rather than eight, producers said they'll still be able to spend more per episode and cover the show's added expenses.

"Empire" follows the story of Julius Caesar's 17-year-old nephew Octavius, who -- with the support of his gladiator, Tyrannus, battles Marc Antony for control of Rome.

Wheeler, Chip Johannessen, Neil Meron and Craig Zadan exec produce the project, which is expected to air sometime in midseason.

Date in print: Thurs., May 13, 2004

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EARLIER NEWS:

The latest news from James Frain's CV page at the PFD site (along with this brand spankin' new photo) -- James recently completed shooting SPARTACUS and is currently in LA shooting EMPIRE.
After a bit of sluething on the parts of Carol and Justine, we have uncovered just what EMPIRE is. It is a limited series being produced for the ABC network in North America and should be ready to screen in the fall of 2004. Filming for EMPIRE will also be taking place in Rome. The following are reports about the project.

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Most recently, there is this article in the latest edition of ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY magazine, on the two (yup, there's another one) American produced, British acted Roman epic television series being filmed currently in Rome. For another focus, this about the scramble for props and locations for these two series (EMPIRE & ROME), check out this article from VARIETY.
Alas, no mention of James Frain in either article, but we do discover that Trudie Styler is playing his Mum! So, dueling epics? The streets of Rome crowded with cute Brits in togas? Now where did we leave our passport.........?

Thanks to Carol for bringing these articles to our attention.

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From the mediasharx.com website:

Tue, 16 March 2004 14:41:16

Et ABC, Brute?

By Marcus Ferrell

ABC has found their Brutus for the limited series EMPIRE. ABC has found another loyal Roman in [James] Frain, who will join the cast of EMPIRE. ABC's limited series follows the rise of Rome's first emperor, Augustus (Santiago Cabrera). The show, written by Tom Wheeler, follow a teenage Gaius Octavius, nephew to Julius Caesar, as he rises to become Emperor Augustus in 27 B.C. Frain will play Brutus.

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We finally have confirmation on James Frain's role as Brutus. It took a little while to confirm James Frain's involvement in this project, because the wire services reported his name in the above announcement as "Jonathan" Frain! It seems timing is everything. Though Carol had a veritable flurry of email and calls out, it was Justine who got confirmation from Touchstone Television. A kind person named Erin from Touchstone's Media Relations Department has confirmed that "Jonathan" Frain is actually James Frain. So, the word is out! As it pertains to Empire, Jonathan is no more and long live James as Brutus!!
A funny aside -- it seems that there may just be a plot to keep Mr. Frain in obscurity; there was a review for Spartacus this week which labeled a photo caption of James as "David Frain playing gladiator 'David'." Yes, that's right, after 11 years of brilliant international film, television and theatre work, this very excellent, moving actor strikes anonymity into the hearts of the U.S. media! Your secret is safe with us James/Jonathan/David -- whoever you are!

Thank you Justine and Carol for the sleuthing and inquiries and to Erin for responding!!

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April 26, 2004 Press Release from ABC Network:
PRODUCTION HAS BEGUN ON "EMPIRE," A SWEEPING, NEW LIMITED DRAMA SERIES AIRING ON THE ABC TELEVISION NETWORK NEXT SEASON

Jonathan Cake and Santiago Cabrera Star

Victor Garber and Trudie Styler Also Appear in the Lavish Eight-Episode Series

Production has begun in Rome on "Empire," a sweeping new limited drama series from the executive producers of the Academy Award-winning "Chicago." The period drama focuses on Julius Caesar's nephew, Octavius, who is forced into exile after Caesar's murder, and a fictional disgraced gladiator, Tyrannus, who has sworn to protect him. The series is slated to air during the 2004-2005 season on the ABC Television Network.

The one-hour, eight episode series will be one of the most lavish and technically complex ever to air on ABC in primetime. "Empire" is being executive-produced by award-winning producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron ("Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows," "Meredith Willson's The Music Man," "Brian's Song," ABC's "Annie," "Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella" and ABC's comedy series "It's All Relative"), Tony Jonas (TV's "Lost at Home," "Queer as Folk"), Chip Johannessen ("24," "The X-Files,") and Thomas Wheeler ("The Prometheus Project," "The Mission"), who is also the series creator.

The time is 44 B.C. and the Conqueror Julius Caesar (guest star Victor Garber, "Alias," "Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows") returns from triumphs in Spain to a neglected Republic and a corrupt Senate, drunk with power. Though he's hailed as a hero by the masses, the Senate is wary of Caesar's plans that might place him in a position of ultimate power. Brutus (James Frain, "Spartacus," "Arabian Nights") and Cassius attempt to enlist the assistance of Marc Antony (Vincent Regan, "Troy," "Joan of Arc") in overthrowing Caesar, but Antony is loyal to Caesar and refuses. A terrible conflict looms and the fate of an empire will fall to one man – a gladiator named Tyrannus.

Tyrannus (Jonathan Cake, "First Knight"), Caesar's bodyguard and confidant and Rome's finest warrior, is undefeated in the arena and considered a champion among men. A slave since he was a young man, Tyrannus impresses Caesar with his fighting prowess and his popularity, and with his dedication to Rome. Caesar offers him freedom in return for his service and friendship. However the Senate puts up a vicious fight for power and manages to separate Caesar from Tyrannus' protective grasp by sending the gladiator to one last match to the death. His absence from Caesar's side results in Brutus successfully leading a group of conspirators in assassinating the great conqueror. As he is drawing his last breath, Caesar swears Tyrannus to an oath to protect his successor, Octavius (Santiago Cabrera), his 18-year-old nephew.

Tyrannus and Octavius are forced into exile to protect the young man from those who want to sever Caesar's bloodline once and for all. They are joined by Agrippa (Chris Egan), a young soldier, and Camane (Emily Blunt), a Vestal Virgin from the powerful religious Order whose members are being hunted down for trying to save Octavius. Together they will help Octavius fulfill his destiny. He leaves Rome an impetuous boy, but will Octavius return as Emperor?

"Empire" stars Jonathan Cake as Tyrannus, Santiago Cabrera as Octavius, Emily Blunt as Camane, Chris Egan as Agrippa and Vincent Regan as Marc Antony.

Recurring or guest stars include Victor Garber as Caesar, Trudie Styler as Servilia, James Frain as Brutus, Michael Brynes as Cicero, Orla Brady as Atia, Graham McTavish as Rapax, N'Deaye Ba as Nila and Fiona Shaw as Fulvia.

"Empire" is being directed by John Gray ("Brian's Song," "Helter Skelter," "Martin and Lewis"), Kim Manners ("X-Files") and Greg Yaitanes ("Line of Fire," "Cold Case," "CSI Miami"). Craig Zadan, Neil Meron, Tony Jonas, Chip Johannessen and series creator Tom Wheeler are the executive producers. The series is produced by Taranus LTD. in association with Storyline Entertainment and distributed by Touchstone Television.

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5 December, 2003 development story on the series:

EMPIRE (A.K.A. TYRANNUS) (ABC) - The Alphabet is set to go forward with the Roman epic as the network has greenlighted production on the series. Eight-hours are set to begin shooting in mid-February or March for an expected fall 2004 air date. ABC had been in talks with Touchstone Television and Storyline Entertainment since August to greenlight the $30 million project.
A mix of history and fiction, "Empire" tracks the story of Julius Caesar's 17-year-old nephew Octavius, who battles general Marc Antony for control of Rome after Caesar is assassinated. Octavius finds an ally in Tyrannus, the gladiator assigned to protect him, and eventually becomes the famed emperor Augustus. Thomas Wheeler created the series and will executive produce along with Chip Johannessen ("Millennuium") and Storyline's Craig Zadan and Neil Meron ("The Music Man").

Creator Wheeler has written a bible for three seasons of the series that cover Caesar's succession all the way up to Marc Antony's steamy alliance with Cleopatra. ABC is open to ordering additional episodes and seasons of the project however isn't likely to produce more than 13 installments per season. It's not clear what ABC's rollout plan will be for the series, which could run as eight one-hour episodes or a multi-night mini-series.

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Well then, a great opportunity for a possible three year run of a series for James Frain and cast! That is, providing the diverse and fickle American public will be open to an ancient Roman series. Hey, it could happen! Ancient Rome has been fairly hot of late, hopefully Empire will catch that wave. And so, we hope that Mr. Frain and all have a happy and productive shoot in Los Angeles and in Rome!
Internet Movie Database page for Empire

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