'Humans' Getting Chinese Remake

The AMC/Channel 4 sci-fi series about robotic "synths" is being adapted into Mandarin, with shooting already underway in Shanghai.

Humans, the AMC/Channel 4 sci-fi drama from Endemol Shine set in a near-future world in which robotic "synths" are employed as servants, is being remade in Mandarin.

The first Asian creation of the series — which recently concluded its third season in English — was unveiled Wednesday, with Endemol Shine China set to partner with Croton Media, Kudos and Matador on the adaptation.

Filming has already begun in Shanghai, with the cast led by Ray Ma and Stephy Qi. Set in the fictional year 2035, when technology, in particular artificial intelligence, will infiltrate and influence every aspect of our daily existence, the series will maintain the narrative of the original English-language version, while continuing to explore the rapidly evolving relationship between humanity and technology.

"Humans marks our first scripted formats partnership deal with a local partner in China, and having enlisted both U.K. and Chinese writers, it’s truly a collaborative venture," said William Tan, managing director of Endemol Shine China. "Sci-fi drama is an underrepresented genre across the region, and we really believe that this new take will set a new trend and that Endemol Shine China will continue to be the leader in creativity and innovation, making unique offerings to the market."

The Mandarin series is based on Humans U.K., as produced by Kudos for Channel 4 and AMC, which was adapted from the original Swedish series Real Humans, produced by Sveriges Television and Matador Film.

Endemol Shine International — which already sold the original English-language version of Humans to 178 territories — will also handle international distribution of the new adaptation.