Josh Hartnett, Eva Green returning for extended second series

Sky Atlantic has commissioned a second series of ten episodes of acclaimed drama Penny Dreadful.

The gothic drama, set in Victorian London and filmed in Ireland, stars Josh Hartnett, Timothy Dalton, Eva Green, Harry Treadaway and Billie Piper, in reimagined stories about some of literature’s most famous characters – including Dr. Frankenstein, Dorian Gray and iconic figures from the novel Dracula.

Reeve Carney, Rory Kinnear and Danny Sapani also star.

The series commission follows the success after only three episodes have aired with the first episode debuting as the second-highest-rated launch for an original commission ever for Sky Atlantic.

Penny Dreadful is produced by Neal Street Productions and Desert Wolf Productions for Sky Atlantic and SHOWTIME; And created, written and executive produced by three-time Oscar nominee John Logan.

David Nevins, President, Showtime Networks Inc. commented:

“Picking up Penny Dreadful was one of the easiest decisions I’ve made. The series has had worldwide impact, drawing big, passionate audiences on both sides of the Atlantic, and more than any other show on our network has hit the bullseye with viewers who want to watch television in all the new ways that are available.  John Logan has deftly created an epic series that has drawn raves from a wide-range of audiences from quality drama lovers to critics, to hardcore genre fans. We look forward to working once again with our partners at Sky Atlantic and are extremely excited for what’s in store for season two.”

Pippa Harris, Executive Producer, Neal Street Productions added:

“It’s a testament to John Logan’s skill and artistry as a writer and the superbly talented cast and crew that the series has resonated so strongly with fans on both sides of the Atlantic. The success of Penny Dreadful proves that British Drama can compete internationally.”

Executive Producers alongside Logan are Oscar winner Sam Mendes (American Beauty, Skyfall) and Pippa Harris (Revolutionary Road, Call The Midwife), both of Neal Street. Cameron Roach is Executive Producer for Sky.

Series 2 of Penny Dreadful will go into production later this year on location in Dublin for a 2015 launch.