'Wizard's' First Show: November

By Rick Porter, Zap2It.com | July 18, 2008

Sam Raimi

Sam Raimi-produced syndicated show set for fall

TV stations across the country will be off to see the "Wizard" this fall.

The Sam Raimi-produced syndicated show "Wizard's First Rule" will roll out the weekend of Nov. 1. The series, based on Terry Goodkind's "Sword of Truth" books, will become one of the only scripted series airing in first-run syndication.

"Adapting Terry Goodkind's brilliant work for television is a thrilling opportunity," says Raimi, who's an executive producer of the show. "The amazing characters and heartfelt story combined with the captivating backdrop of New Zealand will have viewers on the edge of their seats."

Australian actor Craig Horner ("Monarch Cove") stars as a man named Richard Cypher, who discovers he has magical abilities and begins putting them to use to stop a "ruthless tyrant" who's bent on enslaving the world. Bridget Regan ("The Black Donnellys") also stars as a mysterious woman who helps Richard on his journey.

Raimi is executive producing the show with Rob Tapert, his partner on past syndicated series "Xena: Warrior Princess" and "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys." Joshua Donen, Ned Nalle and Kenneth Biller are also exec producers.

"Wizard's First Rule" will reach 95 percent of the country, including all of the top 50 markets.