Exclusive

The Bible Is Back: Mark Burnett Plans for More of the "Greatest Stories in the History of the World"

Exclusive! Hear what the executive producer had planned for his miniseries back in March

By Jenna Mullins Jul 02, 2013 7:31 PMTags
The BibleJoe Alblas/A+E Networks, LLC

NBC is bringing The Bible back!

When the first episode of the History Channel miniseries premiered to astounding ratings back in March, we talked to executive producers Mark Burnett and his wife Roma Downey about the success of The Bible. And he could not stop gushing about what he calls some of the "greatest stories in the history of the world."

"The Bible has the greatest stories in the history of the world. First of all, it's our faith. We love the Bible," he told us. "But beyond that, there wouldn't be Lord of the Rings. There would never be Narnia. We wouldn't have Matrix [without the Bible]!"

As for their inspiration to take on The Bible in the first place, Downey cites the "beloved" but decades-old Ten Commandments film starring Charlton Heston. "We thought there was also an opportunity here to bring this great Bible story to the screen in fresh, visual ways," she said.

Watch: Mark Burnett Rejoices Mini Series' Success

Here is the official logline for The Bible sequel, tentatively titled A.D.: Beyond the Bible:

"A perfect storm brews in the Holy Land, fueled by social injustice, Roman military oppression and religious unrest. High priests and the Herod dynasty vie for power. Zealot revolutionaries turn to violence to regain what they believe is their promised land. And in the face of terrible odds and brutal persecution, the small band of Jesus' disciples stand against the combined might of Rome and their own local authorities. In a generation of rebellion, war, famine, and carnage, who can they trust? Who should they fear? Will tomorrow bring a violent death? For many, it does … but others survive, and as the storm around them breaks, the fate of Israel, of Rome and of their faith is decided."

What storylines do you think the follow-up will cover?