Disney+ to Create Karl Lagerfeld Series ‘Kaiser Karl’

Disney+ and Lupin producers Gaumont to create a six-episode series about the life of Karl Lagerfeld

A six-episode drama series about the famous fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld is currently in the works. Disney Plus has commissioned the project with Paris-based Lupin producers Gaumont in tow. 

The story is based on the biography by Raphaëlle Bacqué, who will be joining the team of writers that also includes Isaure Pisani-Ferry (Vampires) and Jennifer Have (Unfaithful). It will follow Lagerfeld’s journey from 1972, the year after Coco Chanel’s death, as he vies for a chance to become the fashion house’s successor. 

The series will also touch on the rivalry between Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent’s partner Pierre Berge and his love story with Jacques de Bascher. The series will be filmed in France.

Shot by Hedi Slimane

Jan Koeppen, president of Disney Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), announced the show during his Series Mania keynote.

“We are now entering the golden age of European content,” he said. “There’s no sign of a slowing down, we’re accelerating our production. Disney+ has given us a unique opportunity to tell uniquely European stories to global audiences.”

Lagerfeld left a lasting imprint on the fashion world, specifically for his role at Chanel as creative director in 1983. He died in Paris at age 85 in 2019, and he is often remembered for his black sunglasses, high-collar shirts, white ponytail, and black cane.

Disney has a target to deliver 60 original European shows by 2024, Kaiser Karl among the many new, ambitious projects.

“’Kaiser Karl’ is an icon of the century and since the beginning Disney has been very supportive by sharing our creative vision for the show,” Christophe Riandée, vice CEO Gaumont, said.

 

 

 

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