Based on the real events, The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a story of growing love in the midst of one of the most abhorrent events in human history.

Journalist Heather Morris interviewed Lale Sokolov for three years beginning in 2003, resulting in her 2018 publication of The Tattooist of Auschwitz. Sokolov was deported to Auschwitz in 1942 and was assigned as one of the camp’s tattooists. He met his future wife Gita Furman when tattooing the identification number on her arm, under the careful watch of an SS officer. Heather Morris’ dramatized recounting of Lale and Gita’s love story has now sold over 12 million copies worldwide.

The highly anticipated adaption will see Melanie Lynskey (The Last of Us) play the award-winning author Heather Morris. Alongside her, Jonah Hauer-King (The Flatshare) and Anna Próchniak (Warsaw 44) will also star as lead roles Lale Sokolov and Gita Furman respectively. They will be joined by Jonas Nay (Deutschland 83) playing Auschwitz guard Stefan Baretzki. Award-winning director Tali Shalom-Ezer (My Days of Mercy) will direct all six episodes.

Melanie Lynskey commented: “After the horrors experienced at Auschwitz-Birkenau, the continuation of Lale and Gita Sokolov’s story is finding their new home, and it was years later in Australia Lale felt comfortable to share his story with New Zealand author Heather Morris. As a New Zealand storyteller in my own way, it is a privilege to be a part of the furthering of Lale’s and Gita’s heart-breaking, yet heart-warming story.”

Tali Shalom-Ezer, Director, added: “In Auschwitz, a factory of death and dehumanisation, Lale and Gita's love story is an act of defiance. It is the choice to remain human. I'm inspired and honoured to bring this story to life, alongside the talented team of people assembled.”

The Tattooist of Auschwitz is currently in production and will be available on Sky Atlantic in 2024.