NBC orders updated 'Crusoe' from Power

NBC has placed a direct order with British production firm Power for a new adaptation of Robinson Crusoe.

The network has ordered 13 hour-long episodes of an "updated and adrenaline-charged for a 21st-century audience" version of Daniel Defoe's classic tale.

Power founder and CEO Justin Bodle said: "This deal is the first for nearly 40 years where a leading British producer has received an order directly from a US network. It is hugely exciting to be producing a network show for NBC, and to be working with Ben [Silverman, co-chairman of NBC Entertainment] and his phenomenal creative team. Power is consolidating on its reputation as the leading creator of high-end event drama in Europe and Robinson Crusoe will be a landmark piece of television in more ways than one."

Silverman explained: "One of our key strategies is to look abroad for great production partners. This was an opportunity that made perfect sense for us. Justin Bodle, Chris Philip and the team at Power create high-quality productions and working jointly with Universal Media Studios, we know they will combine to give new life to this classic tale of adventure."

NBC's remake will be the first adaptation of Defoe's novel since 1964.