In June 2009, NBC began airing BBC original series Merlin, to decent ratings and reviews. The show marks the first time a British show has aired on American network TV, as opposed to cable channels or being remade as an American production, in over thirty years. The first two episodes of the 13-episode season aired Sunday June 21 on NBC.
The Beginning of a Magical Life
Merlin depicts the early years of the wizard’s life, and the beginning of his relationship with Prince Arthur. The show has drawn parallels to The CW’s Smallville, which shows the teenage life of Superman.
'Just as in Smallville, we wanted to subvert expectations,' says Johnny Capps, a co-creator and head writer of Merlin.
The principal actors are largely unknowns. Colin Morgan stars as young Merlin, with Bradley James as Prince Arthur (not yet King) and Angel Coulby as Guinevere (Gwen). Anthony Stewart Head, known to most as Giles from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, is the most recognizable name in the cast, playing King Uther.
In the show, Uther has banned all magic and slain all dragons, save for one. Merlin, born with incredible powers, must keep his magic a secret in Camelot while working for Prince Arthur, whom it is his duty to protect.
Caution: Literary Purists Stay Out
Merlin has taken a few liberties with the Arthurian legends. Guinevere, for example, is not a princess or a consort to the Prince, but is a servant maid to Morgana, who is not an evil seductress but a warm and sympathetic character. Camelot, which according to legend was built by Arthur as king, already exists, and instead of Merlin as an older mentor type, the two are approximately the same age.
Although historical and literary purists may have their complaints, the show has a solid following in its native England. The second season is scheduled to start on the BBC in September.
The US Debut
Its fate in America is still undecided. The Sunday night ratings were fair – second overall, losing to CBS which aired game show Million Dollar Password. However, Merlin did better by coming in second in the coveted 18-49 demographic with 1.4 million viewers, just below Fox's 1.5.
Genre shows are rarely a success on network television, and are often viewed as “too campy” for mainstream audiences. By airing Merlin on NBC over SyFy or the CW, execs have taken a gamble. It may take a little magic for there to be a pay off.
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