Elizabeth Banks to Star in Amazon's Karen Read True Crime Series

Amazon Prime Video has officially ordered a scripted drama series based on the Karen Read case, per The Hollywood Reporter. Elizabeth Banks will star as Read and serve as an executive producer.

The eight-episode, hour-long series will be written and showrun by Justin Noble. It is inspired by the "Karen" podcast from Law&Crime and Audible.

According to a synopsis, the series follows the aftermath of a Boston police officer's death during a blizzard, with suspicion falling on his girlfriend. Her legal team's claims of a conspiracy ignite a firestorm that fractures a community.

Banks, who is from Massachusetts, stated the case "divide[s] families, friends, and entire towns." Noble said the real-life twists outdo even the most elaborate fictional thrillers. He added the story examines a flawed justice system and the mistreatment of women.

The series is unauthorized. Karen Read herself has publicly stated she has "nothing to do" with the project, according to an interview she gave to WRKO host Howie Carr. Her attorney said it is "Karen Read's story to tell."

Executive producers include David E. Kelley, Audible, Law&Crime, and Warner Bros. Television, where the series is housed.