Scarpetta landed on Prime Video recently, and the crime drama has gripped viewers.

The series stars Oscar winner and Big Little Lies actress Nicole Kidman in the titular role as Dr Kay Scarpetta, the chief medical examiner of the Commonwealth of Virginia, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Alongside Kidman, Scarpetta features an impressive ensemble cast, which also includes Jamie Lee Curtis, Bobby Cannavale, Simon Baker, and Ariana DeBose.

Here's an overview of the episode count for the series.

How many episodes of Scarpetta are there?

Scarpetta comprises eight episodes, which dropped on Prime Video simultaneously on March 11 for worldwide audiences to watch.

A synopsis for the series reads: "With skilled hands and an unnerving eye, this unrelenting medical examiner is determined to serve as the voice of the victims, unmask a serial killer, and prove that her career-making case from 28 years prior isn't also her undoing.

"Set against the backdrop of modern forensic investigation, the series delves beyond the crime scene to explore the psychological complexities of both perpetrators and investigators, creating a multi-layered thriller that examines the toll of pursuing justice at all costs."

Scarpetta unfolds across two timelines, one in the past and another in the present, with performers portraying the younger versions of the principal characters.

The programme is based on the acclaimed crime novels of Patricia Cornwell, bearing the same title.

The first Scarpetta novel was published in 1990, and Cornwell has consistently produced more books, with the most recent instalment released just last year.

Rosy McEwen, known for her role in Blue Jean, portrays a younger version of Kidman's character, Scarpetta, in the series.

In a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, McEwen shared her insights about the character and what she learned from Moulin Rouge star Kidman, stating: "Sometimes you feel like to be powerful you want to puff up and be louder.

"But actually, as I was watching Nicole, I was like, 'No, power is quiet. Power is stillness.'".

"I think [Kay Scarpetta] grows into that. I'm quick to react and be emotional, but actually having the strength to take a second to think how you're going to respond and then respond - that's how she's learned to make her way through this world."

Alongside their acting roles, both Kidman and Curtis also serve as executive producers on Scarpetta.

Audience reactions to the drama have been mixed, with some viewers praising the show and eagerly anticipating a second season, whilst others expressed disappointment, particularly fans of the original novel.

One viewer posted on X (formerly Twitter): "Nicole Kidman is that girl in #scarpetta. Brilliant crime drama. Season 2, better hurry up."

A second individual posted: "Also, the killer was a bit underwhelming for me. That and maybe the secret sorta #Scarpetta."

They followed up with: "I'm watching season 2 though! #Scarpetta."

A third viewer stated: "You better tell me we'll get a second season of #Scarpetta because you don't end 8 episodes like that unless you're a meanie [sic]."

Whilst another remarked: "I was super excited for Scarpetta, having read the books since the 90's, but 3 episodes in on Prime, and I cannot continue watching it. Sometimes adaptations ruin the books for you, and I don't want that to happen to my feelings for this beloved series and characters #Scarpetta."

Someone else stated: "#Scarpetta was such a disappointment. These aren't the characters that many people loved. And Jamie Lee Curtis, terrible acting, terrible character."

Another added: "@lizsarnoff really did an horrific job on #scarpetta. Ridiculous dialogue, wide disparity from the tone and tenor of the source material and the casting is among the worst ever seen. Cornwell should be embarrassed by this adaptation."

Despite the mixed reception, Scarpetta has already secured a second season after it was confirmed that the programme received a two-season order, according to Decider.

Given that all the characters remain alive, they will be returning for the subsequent series.

Scarpetta is streaming on Prime Video now

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