‘Gomorrah’ Prequel Series Planned to Span Three Seasons

EXCLUSIVE: The anticipated prequel series to Italian mega-hit Gomorrah is currently being planned as a three-season endeavor, according to sources close to the project.

While the second and third seasons have yet to receive formal approval from Sky, the creative vision for the project spans three seasons. Production for the first season is set to begin early next year.

The prequel, still untitled, will be set in 1970s Naples and will explore the origin story and rise to power of crime boss Pietro Savastano and his wife, Imma Savastano, who are central figures in the original Sky Italia and Cattleya series. Several characters from the first season of Gomorrah are expected to appear as their younger selves. The idea is for the third season to bridge the story to the events of the original show.

Key creators from the original series are returning, including novelist Roberto Saviano, whose book inspired the story, screenwriters Leonardo Fasoli and Maddalena Ravagli, and director Marco D’Amore. D’Amore, who portrayed Ciro Di Marzio in the original series, also directed multiple episodes.

The first season is expected to be slightly less dark compared to the original series. The narrative will initially focus on contraband and cigarette-dealing rather than hard drugs and murder. The characters will start out as teenagers, and more attention will be given to the romance between the Savastanos and their coming-of-age journey.

Given the young ages of the characters, the leads will be newcomers. Casting is currently underway.

An international sales partner has not yet been confirmed, but it is likely to be Beta, which managed the original series.

Inspired by Saviano’s bestseller, the Neapolitan crime-drama Gomorrah became Italy’s most successful TV export, running for five seasons between 2014 and 2021. The show was broadcast in 190 countries, including on HBO Max in the U.S.

Additionally, Sky is developing another origin series, Romanzo Criminale – La Serie, which will cover the years leading up to the rise of the Banda della Magliana crime group. The original series of Romanzo Criminale aired from 2008 to 2010.