The popularBBCTV showLudwigis reportedly being eyed to receive an American adaptation. Created by Mark Brotherhood, the show follows David Mitchell’s John Taylor, an identical twin who takes over his missing brother’s role as a detective and attempts to locate his twin. Having premiered on the BBC in September 2024,Ludwighas garnered widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike, holding a perfect 100% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes and earning a season 2 renewal with Mitchell and co-starAnna Maxwell Martin (Good Omens)returning.
According to a report byDeadline, American studios are in discussions to adaptLudwigfor domestic audiences. The publicationalso reports that the BBC has already approved international streaming through BritBox after 9.5 million people watched season 1. The show was previously renewed for season 2, and both seasons will begin streaming in the U.S. and Canada, starting next year. BritBox is contributing to season 2 financially, despite not having 2024 streaming rights.
What The American Remake Means For Ludwig
It Wouldn’t Be The First US Twist On A British Hit
If the show does move ahead,Ludwigwouldn’t be the first British show to be adapted for American viewers.The Officefamously started as a British concept, but it achieved much more success overseas.Hell’s Kitchen,Masterchef, andHouse of Cardsall originally began as British productions, before coming to the U.S., and each receiving small changes that helped to set the shows apart. None of these series were 1-to-1 adaptations, but still all managed to secure immense success after shifting away from their original networks.
There were also numerous other British shows that networks were in talks to develop, but which never entered production.
There have, of course, been extremely successful adaptations, but that is not the only possibility. There have beenother shows that have not seen much from domestic audiences.As If,An American Education, andTeacherswere all canceled before their first seasons ended. There were also numerous other British shows that networks were in talks to develop, but which never entered production. Coming to America is not a guarantee of success. That is why, even thoughDoctor Whohas evolved immenselyover the decades, it has never received an American adaptation. Still, there is potential for another show to succeed.
Our Take On An American Ludwig
Ludwig Deserves More Notice
With so much success, it is only natural thatLudwigmight earn an American remake. Besides, procedurals are certainly a popular concept in America, and as such, it’s a natural fit for the American market. Mixing comedy, mystery, and detective shows would draw some attention if it was marketed appropriately.Ludwigcould very well fill the same niche as other procedurals, while offering an interesting gimmick and a compelling sense of humor. IfThe Officecould earn a rebootafter its success in America, thenLudwigcertainly has a shot.
