BBC aiming for ratings magic with 'Merlin'

LONDON, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Following on the ratings success of "Robin Hood," the BBC is preparing to present British audiences with a new magic-based series called "Merlin."

The BBC is searching for U.S. financial assistance on the series, Daily Variety reported. The network has contacted Elisabeth Murdoch's production company Shrine to head up the 13-part drama.

"We're working with Shine and a small group of writers," BBC executive Jane Tranter said. "It will focus on Merlin as a young man and magic, rather than the knights of the round table."

The series would be part of BBC head Peter Fincham's campaign to increase the amount of upscale and family entertainment on the British network.

"Three generation TV -- that's TV you can watch with children and their grandparents -- there's not enough of that about," Fincham said. "I believe we've only scratched the surface of modern family viewing. It has a very important role on a mainstream channel like BBC1."