Bill O'Reilly fancies himself as an author of historical fiction during his time away from Fox News. His latest book, "Killing Kennedy," has been regarded better by critics than his debut novel, "Killing Lincoln," was.
Now the National Geographic channel is teaming up with O'Reilly to bring his sophomore effort to the small screen (the channel recently completed production of "Killing Lincoln").
Both programs are being produced by Ridley Scott's Scott Free Productions.
“The common parallels between Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy are astonishing, with both assassinations profoundly changing the nation during crucial moments in its history," said O'Reilly. "It made perfect sense that my follow-up to Lincoln would naturally lead to Kennedy."
National Geographic hit a home run with its first feature production, 'SEAL Team Six,' which drew 2.7 million viewers. Are historical epics going to be the network's new bread and butter?
“With the tremendous success of SEAL Team Six, our first feature film, and the growing excitement over this February’s premiere of Killing Lincoln, producing Bill O’Reilly’s follow-up was a no-brainer and will be yet another story that will resonate with our audience,” said National Geographic Channel president Howard T. Owens. “As Scott Free Productions continue to be perfect partners -- taking risks and breaking new ground in storytelling -- we are claiming a stake in producing factual dramas, delivering entertainment with substance.”
'Killing Kennedy' will be a two-hour program and begins casting soon.
“Collaborating with National Geographic on Bill O’Reilly’s follow-up was an easy decision," said Scott. "They share the same passion of storytelling and are willing to take creative leaps and risks to keep viewers entertained to tell the provocative story of Kennedy’s last days, a pivotal and historic moment."
'Killing Lincoln' airs next month.