Cotton Budd
Showtime has picked up the Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain starring limited series George & Tammy, skedding the six-parter for December 4.
The Proposition‘s John Hillcoat directed the series, which fixes on country music superstars George Jones and Tammy Wynette.
“Jessica and Michael are truly extraordinary as Tammy and George and their searing performances and undeniable chemistry bring to life the legendary relationship of the King and Queen of country music,” said Chris McCarthy, President/CEO, Showtime and Paramount Media Networks. “The creators and the entire cast have delivered a series with the subtlety, nuance and complexity that are the hallmarks of the SHOWTIME brand and what our viewers deserve and demand.”
“We are exhilarated to finally bring this epic story about two of country’s most loved legends to a global audience with SHOWTIME and Paramount Networks,” said Kelly Carmichael, President of Production & Development, Freckle Films. “This story has been a profound journey of love for Freckle Films and we are eager for audiences to experience the magic that this exemplary cast will bring into their homes.”
“I am thrilled SHOWTIME is bringing George & Tammy to audiences all over the world,” said David Glasser, CEO of 101 Studios and Executive Producer. “This has been Jessica, Abe & Andrew’s labor of love for1 years and to see it all come together is pure joy. Jessica and Michael bring all of the heart, love, tragedy and drama to this epic love story of George & Tammy. There is no better home for this than SHOWTIME which is as passionate about this project as we are at 101 Studios.”
The series chronicles the country music power couple, Tammy Wynette and George Jones, whose complicated-but-enduring relationship inspired some of the most iconic music of all time. Remembered as the “First Lady of Country Music,” Wynette’s most successful song “Stand by Your Man” remains one of the most iconic and best-selling country singles by a female artist. George Jones’ song “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” is still widely called the greatest country song of all time. With over 30 number-one country songs between them, including duets “We’re Gonna Hold On,” “Golden Ring” and “Near You,” George and Tammy’s legacy, both musically and romantically, remains one of the greatest love stories ever told.
