Our readers in the UK have already seen the entire series – the BBC/Sky 1 HD production of Sinbad – that features performances from the likes of Elliot Knight, Sophie Okonedo, George Harris, Ashley Walters and Estella Daniels. The 12-episode series began airing July 8, 2012.

French network Canal+ and Canadian broadcaster Bell Media were both pre-sold local rights to air Sinbad in their territories, and those of you in the USA, the Syfy channel finally picked up stateside rights to Sinbad, last September, with plans to air the 12-episode season beginning in the spring, and, according to Futon Critic, the network has set an April 12 premiere date.

“When mystical meets muscle, anything can happen in this exciting, action-packed series… With its strong production values and rich story, Sinbad will be a terrific addition to our primetime lineup,” said Syfy’s SVP of programming and original movies Chris Regina. 

When Sky 1 HD announced the creation of the series back in 2010, they promised "a 21st century take on the classic 8th century iconic hero, Sinbad, reinvigorating the hero’s adventures for a contemporary audience."

A press release from Sky 1 HD's Head of Drama read:

Our Sinbad is 21, reckless, utterly charming and cursed. Mysticism, magic, monsters and high octane action adventure, this Sinbad is always exciting and sometimes challenging. This unique series will have the ambition of Lost, the pace of 24, and take the viewer to visually stunning locations on both sea and land. Sky’s Sinbad will be a multi-layered series for today’s prime time audience.

And the series' official synopsis reads:

On the run from his home town of Basra and under a curse for a killing that led to the death of his much-loved brother, the streetwise Sinbad finds himself cast out to sea. Surviving a violent and magical storm, both Sinbad and his intriguing fellow ship-mates are forced to band together to face their inner demons, hopes, loves and fears. Our flawed hero embarks on an epic and emotional quest to rid himself of the curse and embrace his destiny. When mystical meets muscle anything can happen.

Elliot Knight stars as the legendary Sinbad, while Lost star Naveen Andrews plays Sinbad's nemesis Lord Akbari; Black brits Sophie Okonedo plays Razia, Queen of the Water-Thieves, Ashley Walters is Abdul-Fahim, George Harris stars is Zalelew, and Estella Daniels (in the photo above with Knight) portrays a character called Nala.

So, April 12 – mark your calendars. I'm sure a new Stateside release trailer will be cut and released.