A&E to Premiere New Series Based on THE OMEN

A&E Network will premiere the new original scripted drama series, "Damien." The hour-long drama from FOX 21 Television Studios and executive producer Glen Mazzara is a follow-up to the classic horror film, The Omen. Currently in production in Toronto, "Damien" will premiere a 10-episode season on A&E, increased from the initial six-episode straight to series order. The announcement was made today by Rob Sharenow, Executive Vice President & General Manager, A&E and Lifetime.

"A&E's unwavering commitment to high quality original scripted drama programming, coupled with the sizable fan-base for our hit series 'Bates Motel,' which so perfectly aligns with 'Damien,' make the network the ideal fit for this exceptional show," said Sharenow. "We are thrilled with what we've seen so far and know that Glen and the creative team have even more story to tell in season one."

The series stars Bradley James as Damien Thorn ("Merlin," "Homeland"), along with Oscar(R) nominee Barbara Hershey ("Once Upon a Time"), Omid Abtahi ("Better Call Saul") and Meganlyn Echikunwoke ("House of Lies").

"Damien" follows the adult life of Damien Thorn, the mysterious child from the 1976 motion picture who has grown up seemingly unaware of the satanic forces around him. Haunted by his past, Damien must now come to terms with his true destiny -- that he is the Antichrist. Barbara Hershey stars as Ann Rutledge, the world's most powerful woman who has been tasked with making sure Damien fulfills his destiny. Omid Abtahi portrays Amani Golkar, a close colleague of Damien's whose fierce loyalty will be tested when he realizes who his brother-in-arms actually is. Meganlyn Echikunwoke plays Simone Baptiste, a woman whose life is thrown into turmoil when tragedy unexpectedly strikes.

"Damien" is produced by FOX 21 Television Studios ("Homeland," "Sons of Anarchy") for A&E Network. Glen Mazzara ("The Walking Dead," "The Shield") serves as writer and executive producer via his 44 Strong Productions. Ross Fineman ("Lights Out"), who developed the project alongside Mazzara, executive produces through his company, Fineman Entertainment. Pancho Mansfield ("Queen of the South") also serves as executive producer. Golden Globe(R) and BAFTA Award nominated director Shekhar Kapur (Elizabeth) directed and executive produces the first episode.

About A&E Network - Now reaching more than 96 million homes, A&E is the home to quality original content that inspires and challenges audiences to BE ORIGINAL. A&E offers a diverse mix of uniquely immersive entertainment ranging from the network's original scripted series, including "Bates Motel" and "The Returned" to signature non-fiction franchises, including "Duck Dynasty," "Wahlburgers" and "Storage Wars." The A&E website is located at aetv.com. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/aetv and Facebook at facebook.com/AETV.

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