An eight-episode series adaptation of Daisy Goodwin’s novel “The American Heiress” is in the works at MGM+, with Julianna Margulies attached to star.
“The American Heiress,” also published under the title “My Last Duchess,” tells the story of Cora Cash, a “dollar princess” whose mother whisks her away from America’s Gilded Age to find a titled husband in Victorian England.
Margulies, whose TV bona fides include Emmy-winning stints on “ER” and “The Good Wife,” is attached to star as the protagonist’s mother, Isabella Cash.
Goodwin, who published the novel in 2010, is attached as showrunner, a role she previously filled for the PBS/ITV series “Victoria.”
“The American Heiress is a story about mothers and daughters, old society obligation and new world entitlement, and the search for meaning in a world distorted by money,” Goodwin said. “I hope it will make viewers laugh, think, and swoon. I am a history nerd, but I am also a fan of the Hollywood golden age—think Consuelo Vanderbilt meets Rebecca! I am beyond excited to be working with Julianna Margulies who embodies the majesty and frustration of Isabella Cash.”
MGM+, which is co-producing the series with Fifth Season, bills “The American Heiress” as a “romantic comedy of manners.”
“The American Heiress is a seductive mix of captivating characters, old world class politics, and romantic ambition,” said Michael Wright, global head of MGM+. “Daisy Goodwin is a master at crafting entertaining and smart stories full of fascinating people and high stakes, and this show is Daisy at her best.”
“Having Julianna Margulies lead this amazing cast with her unique strength, intelligence and charm is ideal. Together with producer Stacey Snider, this team makes The American Heiress a perfect complement to the MGM+ brand of classic Hollywood storytelling for a modern audience,” Wright said.
Production on “The American Heiress” is scheduled to begin this month in Britain.
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