ZDF Studios Acquires Ancient Betrayals Series

ZDF Studios has picked up the global distribution rights to the six-part history series Ancient Betrayals.

Produced by BIG Media, ZDFinfo and WildBear Entertainment, the series uncovers the conspiracies, murders and acts of treason that shaped some of the most pivotal betrayals in history. It is being shot in the style of a true-crime documentary, complemented with archival footage and expert interviews.

The series spans the globe. It begins in 41 AD when the Roman Empire was at the height of its power. Cassius Chaerea, a Praetorian guard member, stabbed Emperor Caligula to death. The following episode travels to Eastern Europe in the Macedonian Empire, where King Omphis betrays his country and ally King Porus when confronted by Alexander the Great’s might. Episode three delves into the story of Hannibal Barca, the brilliant Carthaginian general, who was slowly turned against by the elite.

Then, episode four takes viewers into Ancient Greece, where the Spartans were slaughtered, betrayed by Ephialtes, who led the Persian army behind Greek lines. The penultimate episode delves into the Mongol Empire and reveals how Genghis Khan’s future was defined when his deep friendship with his “blood brother” Jamukha turned into a fierce rivalry. The series closes with the story of Princess La Malinche of the Aztec Empire, woh betrayed her people and played a pivotal role in their destruction.

“Ancient Betrayals, due for delivery in 2026, is the first title from the renewal of our output deal with BIG Media,” said Nikolas Hülbusch, Director Unscripted at ZDF Studios. “As always, they produce top quality content with superb storytelling and this title is no exception.”

Martin Kase, global head of production at BIG Media, commented, “Betrayal is a fascinating subject; a universal theme in contemporary society that goes back through the ages from Judas Escariot to Yevgeny Prigozhin. Our goal is to bring these stories to life taking viewers on a riveting journey of political intrigue, murder and treachery, which led to some of the most significant betrayals in history.”