Netflix launches production of new Senna drama series

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Netflix has announced that a new fictional mini-series based on the life and career of the great Ayrton Senna is now in production and scheduled for a release in 2022.

The eight-episode drama will cover the entirety of the three-time world champion's motorsport career, from his early days in England to Senna's tragic death at Imola in 1994.

The series - produced by Brazil's Gullane with the participation of the Senna family - will blend historical footage with fictional scenes and will have international locations in addition to intimate locations such as the house where Senna grew up, in São Paulo. An actor for Ayrton Senna has not yet been cast.

"The project will give fans the chance to cross the finish line not with Senna, but with Beco or Becão, the driver’s affectionate nicknames among friends and family," said Netflix which is currently producing the third season of "Drive to Survive" in Formula 1.

"More than just remembering remarkable moments in his career, the miniseries is an invitation to explore the personality and family relationships of the three-time Formula 1 champion."

"It is very special to be able to announce that we will tell the story that only a few people know about him," said Viviane Senna, Ayrton's sister.

"The Senna family is committed in making this project something totally unique and unprecedented. And no one better than Netflix, that has a global reach, to be our partner."

"Senna started his journey in São Paulo and conquered the world, we are honored to take his inspiring journey to all his fans, wherever they are," added Maria Angela de Jesus, director of original international productions at Netflix in Brazil.

"Ayrton Senna has a legacy that spans generations and boundaries and Netflix is proud to take this new look at the man behind the driver to subscribers in more than 190 countries."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.