National Geographic preps 'Killing Kennedy' film

WASHINGTON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- America's National Geographic Channel and Scott Free Productions are working together on a factual drama based on Bill O'Reilly's book "Killing Kennedy."

The 2-hour film will follow the channel's first feature, "SEAL Team Six," which aired in November, and the upcoming world premiere in February of a small-screen adaptation of O'Reilly's "Killing Lincoln."

The announcement regarding "Killing Kennedy" was made Thursday by National Geographic Channel President Howard T. Owens.

"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. It made perfect sense that my follow-up to Lincoln would naturally lead to Kennedy," O'Reilly said in a statement. "While Kennedy's assassination continues to garner many conspiracy theories, our story is based on facts, some that haven't been publicly known. And with National Geographic Channel and Scott Free once again at the helm, I have the utmost trust and faith that they will bring the story of Kennedy and Camelot to life."

"Collaborating with National Geographic on Bill O'Reilly's follow-up was an easy decision. They share the same passion of storytelling, 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," said producer Ridley Scott.

Production on the TV movie will begin this spring. Casting news will be announced shortly, the producers said.