History Announces "The Hatfields and the Mccoys" Miniseries Starring K. Costner & 10-Hour Bible-based Docudrama

History (formerly known as The History Channel) announced two high profile projects today. The first, The Hatfield and the McCoys, centers on the infamous 19th-century family feud. Kevin Costner will star as “Devil” Anse Hatfield and co-produce with Leslie Greif. The press release claims the 2012 premiere will coincide with the 150th anniversary of the feud, but I’m not sure how they determine the anniversary for a multidecade feud that was initiated 146 years ago. Brad Pitt, Robert Duvall, and Crazy Heart director Scott Cooper were linked to a separate Hatfield/McCoy movie over a year ago, with the caveat that it will happen “if and when Pitt decides to clear a place in his schedule.” I imagine the Costner project will dissuade Pitt from searching too hard for that hole.

Additionally, History is developing a docudrama series with producer Mark Burnett (Survivor). The network promises all the greatest hits: Noah’s Ark, the Exodus from Egypt, Daniel and the Lion’s Den, and of course, the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. The press release highlights the “state-of-the-art computer-generated imagery (CGI),” which is absolutely noteworthy in 2011. The 10-hour series will air in five parts in 2013.

Source: Collider