Scarpetta first look: Nicole Kidman steps into Kay Scarpetta's world; forensic thriller finally gets screen adaptation
Scarpetta, based on Patricia Cornwell's books, premieres March 11, 2026, on Prime Video. Nicole Kidman stars as Dr. Kay Scarpetta in this thriller about a medical examiner hunting a serial killer.
Last Updated: 11.57 AM, Nov 26, 2025
Scarpetta is a new forensic crime thriller based on Patricia Cornwell's internationally acclaimed book series. Prime Video has revealed the main cast and worldwide launch date. Premiering exclusively on Prime Video globally on March 11, 2026, the series will be the first major screen version of the legendary Kay Scarpetta character.
Decades of anticipation
The announcement, which has been long-awaited by fans of the literary series—which has sold over 120 million copies since its launch in 1990—was accompanied by the unveiling of first-look photos, solidifying decades of anticipation.
Academy Award winner Nicole Kidman plays the series' titular character, Dr Kay Scarpetta, an unrelenting medical examiner. Oscar winner Jamie Lee Curtis portrays her estranged sister Dorothy Farinelli, contributing to an impressive ensemble cast. Simon Baker will portray FBI profiler Benton Wesley, while Emmy winner Bobby Cannavale will portray Detective Pete Marino. Academy Award winner Ariana DeBose completes the main cast as Scarpetta's tech-savvy niece, Lucy Watson.
Creative team
The creator and writer of the TV version, Liz Sarnoff—an Emmy-nominated writer, executive producer, and showrunner—is at the helm of the creative direction. For the first season, renowned director David Gordon Green was responsible for five episodes.
Using a split narrative structure, Scarpetta unfolds across two separate timelines and is characterised as a multi-layered thriller. Dr Scarpetta's life story will be chronicled in the series, beginning in the late 90s when she was first appointed chief medical examiner and continuing up to her current return to her hometown. In the present day, Scarpetta revisits her former position to investigate a brutal murder.
Core conflict
The story revolves around Scarpetta's resolve to apprehend a serial murderer and disprove the theory that a case that defined her career 28 years ago is also responsible for her downfall in the industry. The show will explore the psychological intricacies of seeking justice, going beyond the crime scenes. In her personal and professional life, Scarpetta must navigate a complex network of relationships, including her tense sisterly bond, long-simmering resentments, and secrets that threaten to unravel her world.
Cast members from both timelines have been brought in to play their respective roles: Rosy McEwen will depict Kay Scarpetta, Amanda Righetti will play Dorothy Farinelli, Jake Cannavale will play Pete Marino, and Hunter Parrish will play Benton Wesley. This is all to make room for the dual chronology.
Series focus
With an emphasis on the moral dilemmas of pursuing justice no matter the cost and the severe psychological burden experienced by forensic investigators, the series presents itself as an engrossing crime thriller that goes beyond typical police procedural features.
FAQs:
Q: When does the Scarpetta TV series premiere?
A: The Scarpetta series is scheduled to premiere globally and exclusively on Prime Video on March 11, 2026.
Q: Who stars as Kay Scarpetta in the new Prime Video series?
A: Academy Award winner Nicole Kidman stars as the titular character, forensic medical examiner Dr. Kay Scarpetta.
Q: Is the Scarpetta series based on a book?
A: Yes, the series is based on the globally successful Kay Scarpetta forensic crime thriller book series written by author Patricia Cornwell. The literary series has sold over 120 million copies.