Peaky Blinders fans are just discovering star in 'masterpiece' period drama

Bridgerton enthusiasts are set for a delightful surprise as a timeless period drama is heading to streaming platforms shortly, featuring none other than Peaky Blinders' heartthrob Sam Claflin.

This thrilling adventure tale chronicles a wrongfully convicted mariner who breaks free following years of imprisonment and adopts a fresh persona as a wealthy Count.

The young seaman, Edmond Dantes, pursues vengeance against those behind his unjust detention after being charged with betraying his country.

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The programme in question is The Count of Monte Cristo, and it's arriving on U&Drama this summer.

Edmond Dantes is portrayed by Claflin, with the synopsis explaining: "Falsely accused of treason, Edmond Dantes, a young sailor, is imprisoned without trial in the Château d'If, a grim island fortress off Marseille."

"After many years of captivity, he finally escapes and assumes the identity of the wealthy and enigmatic Count of Monte Cristo.

"With his newfound resources, he embarks on a journey of revenge on those who have wrongly accused him."

The ensemble also features House of Gucci star Jeremy Irons, The Gilded Age star Blake Ritson and The Royals actress Poppy Corby-Tuech.

The programme initially broadcast in Switzerland in 2024 and premiered in Italy earlier this year, receiving glowing critiques.

Responding to the show's official poster, one admirer commented: "This series is a masterpiece indeed!"

@RayanMAljohani1 posted on X, formerly Twitter: "Finally, a worthy adaptation of the novel masterpiece -The Count of Monte Cristo. This mini-series truly satisfies."

Kurtis the Quant enthused: "Just finished the 2024 8-episode Count of Monte Cristo series. The best adaptation of this book and one of the best pieces of cinema I have seen."

ClaireThisTime expressed: "Sam Claflin is beyond exceptional...this will be a phenomenal show!"

The much-anticipated Count of Monte Cristo is set to premiere on U and U&DRAMA come August 2.