Prime Video has officially announced its latest addition to the original programming slate: Rise of the Empress, a series adaptation of Julie C. Dao’s celebrated book series. The project brings together powerhouse collaborators JuVee Productions (The Woman King, G20), Significant Productions (Godfather of Harlem, Fruitvale Station), and renowned actress and producer Gemma Chan (The Creator, Crazy Rich Asians). The series is set to stream exclusively on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories worldwide.
Set in a fantastical ancient Asian empire teetering on the brink of destruction, Rise of the Empress follows the story of Xifeng, a dazzling peasant girl thrust into a world of rivalry and romance. The empire’s only hope for survival rests on the union between the crown prince and a princess from one of the kingdom’s warring factions. As the competition for the prince’s hand heats up, Xifeng’s unexpected arrival—orchestrated by a vengeful sorceress—throws the delicate balance into chaos. The series promises a spellbinding mix of love, power, and self-discovery as Xifeng navigates her path to possibly saving not just herself but the entire empire.
Also Check Out: Trailer And Poster Revealed For Amazon Prime Video’s Carnival Row
The series is helmed by Crystal Liu (American Horror Story), who serves as co-showrunner, writer, and executive producer, alongside Golden Globe winner and Emmy-nominated director and producer James Wong (American Horror Story). Liu expressed her excitement about adapting Dao’s work, saying, “I’m honored and so excited for this opportunity to bring Julie C. Dao’s extraordinary books to the screen—a sumptuous, spellbinding tale of intrigue, with a subversive heroine for the ages. Feeling beyond grateful to be embarking on this journey with the legendary James Wong and our spectacular producers JuVee, Significant, and Gemma Chan.”
Amazon MGM Studios’ Nick Pepper highlighted the series’ global appeal: “This story, led by an incredible female heroine, is an inspiring tale of strength and resilience. Crystal, alongside the teams at JuVee and Significant, and Gemma, have done an amazing job capturing the magic created by Julie, and we are thrilled to welcome James to help bring this brilliant project to life.”
The production teams behind Rise of the Empress include some of the most prominent names in the entertainment industry. Viola Davis, Julius Tennon, and Andrew Wang of JuVee Productions described the series as a story that transcends borders: “Julie C. Dao’s book series not only builds a fantastical world of opulence and mystery out of Asian history but centers a character that, in her defiance to be what she is expected to be, finds the strength that may give her the power to change the world.”
Forest Whitaker and Nina Yang Bongiovi of Significant Productions echoed their enthusiasm: “We are ecstatic to witness Crystal’s vision come to fruition, alongside the venerable James Wong. It’s truly joyful to be on this inspirational journey with Amazon, JuVee Productions, and Gemma Chan.”
Chan herself expressed excitement for the project, saying, “I couldn’t be more excited for audiences to discover the spectacular world and unforgettable characters of Rise of the Empress. With the fresh vision of Crystal Liu, the esteemed James Wong, and our wonderful partners, this promises to be an epic experience.”
Rise of the Empress fans of the book series and newcomers alike can look forward to an epic tale of love, power, and resilience—coming soon to Prime Video.
