After months of anticipation, Netflix has officially confirmed that its live-action Assassin’s Creed series will be set in Ancient Rome, kicking off in 64 AD. The adaptation of the popular video game franchise will bring the historical period to life, filming primarily on location in Italy and at Cinecittà Studios. This decision marks a significant step in bringing the world of the Assassin’s Creed franchise to a new audience, and offers a fresh take on a pivotal moment in Roman history.
The choice of 64 AD is particularly compelling, as it was the year of the Great Fire of Rome, a catastrophic event that reshaped the city and its empire. The period is defined by the reign of Emperor Nero, a figure known for his extravagance, alleged role in the fire, and subsequent persecution of Christians. This tumultuous backdrop provides fertile ground for the series’ central conflict: a secret war between those seeking control and those fighting for free will, as described by Netflix. The Assassin’s Creed setting and time period promises a thrilling narrative woven into a historically rich environment.
Filming Underway in Italy
Production is now underway, with filming taking place at Cinecittà Studios in Rome. The studio, renowned for its extensive Ancient Rome backlot, provides an ideal setting for recreating the grandeur and complexity of the ancient city. The series is not only utilizing existing sets but also expanding upon them, promising a visually immersive experience for viewers. News of the production start was reported on March 10, 2026, with fans sharing excitement online, as noted in a Reddit thread dedicated to the series.
Expanding the Cast for the Roman Saga
Netflix has announced four additional recurring cast members joining the production: Sandra Guldberg-Kampp (known for her roles in Foundation and The Rain), Youssef Kerkour (A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms), Mirren Mack (Hedda and 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple), and Louis McCartney (Stranger Things: The First Shadow). These additions complement the previously announced leads, Lola Petticrew and Toby Wallace, alongside a robust ensemble including Zachary Hart, Laura Marcus, Tanzyn Crawford, Nabhann Rizwan, Claes Bang, Noomi Rapace, Ramzy Bedia, Sean Harris, and Corrado Invernizzi. The diverse cast suggests a complex and multifaceted story is unfolding.
A New Story Within a Familiar World
While the Assassin’s Creed franchise has visited Rome before – notably in the video game Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, set over a thousand years later – this series will tell an original story not previously explored in the games. According to IGN, the series will delve into the events surrounding Nero’s reign, including the aftermath of the Great Fire and the subsequent persecution of Christians. The historical context is further enriched by the fact that 65 AD saw Nero targeted in an assassination plot, an event likely to be incorporated into the narrative. The series will also explore Nero’s surprising foray into the Olympic Games, where he reportedly won numerous contests.
The Legacy of the Assassin’s Creed Franchise
The Assassin’s Creed franchise boasts a massive following, having sold over 230 million units worldwide. This success has cemented its place as one of the best-selling video game series in history. The series is known for its blend of historical fiction, action, and stealth gameplay, and the Netflix adaptation aims to capture that same spirit. The core of the story revolves around the age-ancient conflict between the Assassins and the Templars, two secret societies battling for control of humanity’s destiny.
Behind the Scenes: Showrunners and Production
Roberto Patino and David Wiener are serving as showrunners for the series, bringing their experience to helm this ambitious adaptation. They are joined by executive producers Gerard Guillemot, Margaret Boykin, Austin Dill, Genevieve Jones from Ubisoft Film & Television, and Matt O’Toole. This collaborative effort between Netflix and Ubisoft underscores the importance of staying true to the source material while also creating a compelling television experience.
The series promises to explore the political intrigue, social unrest, and personal dramas of Ancient Rome, all while maintaining the core themes of freedom, control, and the fight for a better future that define the Assassin’s Creed universe. As production continues at Cinecittà Studios, fans eagerly await further updates and a glimpse into the world of the series.
The next major milestone for the Assassin’s Creed series will be the release of official promotional materials, including trailers and character posters, as production progresses. Netflix has not yet announced a release date, but further details are expected in the coming months. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting adaptation of a beloved video game franchise.
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