Freeform has given a 10-episode series order to a drama centered on witches titled Motherland: Fort Salem, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
- The new series comes from creator Eliot Laurence and Gary Sanchez Productions and is set in a reality in which not only do witches exist, but they are essential to the defense of the United States.
- 300 years ago, witches cut a deal with the US government to fight for the country, flipping gender roles and putting women on the front lines.
- Laurence will serve as the showrunner and will executive produce along with Gary Sanchez Productions’ Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Kevin Messick.
- Freeform Studios and Gary Sanchez Productions will produce the new series.
- Motherland: Fort Salem focuses on three young witches:
- Raelle, played by Taylor Hickson, a reluctant recruit whose mother was killed in the line of duty.
- Tally, played by Jessica Sutton, a kind, strong-willed and curious witch who enlisted over her mother's objections.
- Scylla, Amalia Holm, a playful yet dark and mischievous recruit who's not what she appears to be.
- The series also stars Demetria McKinney as Anacostia, a drill sergeant whose chief concern is keeping the recruits alive through basic training.
- A preview for Motherland: Fort Salem has also been released.
What they’re saying:
- Tom Ascheim, president, Freeform: "We're so excited to be able to tell this story rich with female empowerment, complex storytelling and an incredibly creative canon. While set in an alternative universe, Motherland: Fort Salem will continue the authentic and issues-driven storylines that our network is known for, and what our audience has come to expect. We are thrilled to be working with Eliot, Will, Adam and Kevin on this exceptionally creative tale and look forward to bringing this even further to life."
- Kevin Messick, executive producer: "Will, Adam and I couldn't be more excited about the opportunity to take Eliot's vision to series. Motherland: Fort Salem is bold and original storytelling and Freeform has been incredibly supportive in helping us realize Eliot's alternate version of America. We can't wait to get started on the season."