JC Olivera/Getty Images
- Amazon Studios has picked up a scripted TV drama series based on the story of convicted felon and zoo operator Joe Exotic, with Nicolas Cage starring as the infamous big cat breeder.
- The story of Joe Exotic caught traction with millions when Netflix’s “Tiger King” was released in March.
- A release date for the Amazon series is unclear.
- Visit Business Insider’s homepage for more stories.
Amazon Studios confirmed on Thursday that it is picking up an eight-episode drama series featuring the real-life story behind Netflix’s uber-popular “Tiger King” show, per a CNET report.
The new scripted show will star Nicolas Cage in the role of Joe Exotic, a move that was previously announced back in May. Amazon did not immediately respond to Business Insider’s request for comment.
Netflix’s “Tiger King” captured the hearts of viewers everywhere when it launched on the streaming service back in March as the COVID-19 pandemic began to take hold of the world. It tells the real-life story of zoo operator Joseph Maldonado-Passage, otherwise known as Joe Exotic, who is currently serving a 22-year prison sentence for his involvement in a murder-for-hire plot to take down his rival, as well as for the killing of tigers.
It has inspired multiple productions, including an NBC project starring Saturday Night Live member Kate McKinnon as Joe Exotic’s rival, Carole Baskin, who also happens to be a star in the upcoming season of ABC’s “Dancing With the Stars.” Amazon’s TV series will be based on a Texas Monthly article featuring Maldonado-Passage’s story that was published in June 2019.
Cage has made a name for himself in films including “National Treasure,” “Moonstruck,” “Leaving Las Vegas,” and “Ghost Rider.” This will be Cage’s first foray into television, according to CNET.