All about “Those About to Die,” the Anthony Hopkins series that aims to surpass “Gladiator”

The Roman Empire has always fascinated the entertainment industry. Ben-Hur, Spartacus, Rom’e, Gladiator, Britannia, Caligula, I, Claudius and why not Life of Brian are all a reflection of this era ruled by one of the greatest empires in human history. A new series is in the pipeline from Roland Emmerich, who eschews global disasters and alien invasions in favor of a sandal film series. Those About to Die is out next week.

What is “Those About to Die” about?

The series is based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Daniel Mannix from 1958. This is the official synopsis:

“Those About To Die is an epic drama set in the corrupt world of spectacular gladiatorial combat, exploring a previously unseen side of ancient Rome – the dirty business of entertaining the masses and giving the mob what they want most… blood and sport. The series introduces an ensemble cast of characters from all corners of the Roman Empire who come together at the explosive intersection of sport, politics and dynasties.”

The show was written by Robert Rodatan Oscar candidate for one of the most important films in Steven Spielberg‘s filmography, ‘The soldier James Ryan‘.

Who is in the cast of “Those About to Die”?

The cast of “Those About to Die” is led by two-time Oscar winner Anthony Hopkinswho plays the Roman emperor Vespasianwho is responsible for giving the people what they want: the brutal fight in the Colosseum. Also starring Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins, Tom Hughes, Jojo Macari, Moe Hashim, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson, Rupert Penry-Jones, Gabriella Pession, Dimitri Leonidas, Emilio Sakraya, David Wurawa, Pepe Barroso, Gonçalo Almeida, Eneko Sagardoy, Romana Maggiora Vergano, Lara Wolf, Angeliqa Devi, Kyshan Wilson and Alicia Edogamhe.

How long and how many episodes is “Those About to Die”?

The series will debut with 10 one-hour episodes.

When will “Those About to Die” be released in the US?

“Those About to Die” premieres on Thursday, July 18, on Peacock’s streaming service in the US. The international release of the series is planned for Prime Video.

How much does a Peacock subscription cost?

Peacock Premium, which includes ads, costs $5.99 per month. A yearly subscription to Peacock Premium is also available at a special, limited-time price of $19.99. This yearly subscription normally costs $59.99. Premium Plus, which is ad-free, costs $11.99 per month or $119.99 per year.