SkyShowtime, the European streaming joint venture of Paramount and Comcast that is available in more than 20 markets, has unveiled a new Spanish original: Death in Llanes (Muerte en Llanes).
Starring two-time Goya Award winner Javier Gutiérrez (Rondallas), María Vázquez (Matria) and Isak Férriz (City of Shadows), the six-episode limited drama series follows the murder investigation following the death of a politician in Llanes, west of Bilbao. Produced by K 2000 in collaboration with 100 Balas for SkyShowtime, the six-part drama is currently in production.
In August 2018, Javier Ardines was found dead 100 meters from his home. The case quickly made headlines. The show shows the Guardia Civil launching an investigation “marked by political rivalries, rigged examinations and personal conflicts,” according to a SkyShowtime synopsis. “The case takes a significant turn when new evidence reveals an unexpected love triangle.”
Adapted from the podcast The Two Deaths of Javier Ardines, the series was created and written by Jesús Mesas Silva and is directed by Gerardo Olivares (4 Latas). Alejandro Flórez and Manu Sánchez serve as executive producers for 100 Balas.
Also part of the cast are Urko Olazábal (Soy Nevenka), Ana Wagener (The Last Night at Tremor Beach), Natalia Verbeke (Todos mienten), Jorge Bosch (La abogadas), Irene Anula (Raising Voices) and Miren Gaztañaga (Maspalomas).
“Death in Llanes (Muerte en Llanes) is a gripping, atmospheric thriller inspired by a truly shocking case,” said SkyShowtime chief content officer Kai Finke. “What makes this project so impressive is how the creative team is transforming a very complex investigation into a premium drama that is both emotionally engaging and crafted with genuine care. It’s exactly the kind of distinctive and authentic local storytelling we’re committed to bringing to audiences in Spain and beyond.”
Added Alejandro Flórez, executive producer and CEO of 100 Balas: “This project started with the podcast The Two Deaths of Javier Ardines, which perfectly captured the meticulous investigation that had the entire country on edge. With the support and collaboration of the Guardia Civil, a unique creative and technical team, and SkyShowtime, we are excited to bring this ambitious drama to life.”
And director Olivares said: “It is a great responsibility to direct this story, based on the investigation carried out by the UCO (Unidad Central Operativa). Our aim is for the project to reflect the authenticity of the police process, creating a series that feels intimate, restrained and honest, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in a complex and nuanced investigation.”
Death in Llanes (Muerte en Llanes) is the latest addition to SkyShowtime’s Spanish original slate, which also includes Shades (Matices), Nails, Road to Arcadia (Camino a Arcadia) and The Tribute (El Homenaje), which featured a Chris Hemsworth cameo.
