Global distribution deal for John Ibrahim’s TV drama Last King of the Cross

The King of the Cross could soon be king of the world, with news John­ ­Ibrahim’s TV drama has been picked up by an international distributor.

The King of the Cross could soon be king of the world, with news John­ ­Ibrahim’s TV drama has been picked up by an international distributor.

Cineflix Rights has teamed up with Sydney producer Mark Fennessy to bring Paramount+ true crime drama Last King of the Cross to the world.

John Ibrahim and Sydney TV producer Mark Fennessy are collaborating on Last King of the Cross. Picture: John Grainger

It is inspired by Ibrahim’s 2017 autobiography of the same name, and will be written and directed by Kieran Darcy-Smith.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Mark on Last King of The Cross — a truly authentic depiction of gangster life,” Cineflix Rights head of scripted content James Durie said.

“Based around classic themes of family bonds being tested, criminal empire-building, and corruption, which echo some of the most successful movies and TV shows of recent years, we believe it has huge potential with international audiences.”

The 10-part series is expected to film in Sydney later this year, with the story to focus on two immigrant brothers in John and Sam Ibrahim, who rise to become prominent figures in the Kings Cross nightclub district.

John Ibrahim and partner Sarah Budge with their baby son Elvis.

“John Ibrahim’s story is an incredible tale of the violence and brutality behind the infamous Kings Cross of the 1990s,” Fennessy said.

“But the soul and foundation of Last King of The Cross lies within its rich characters and their relationships, and, in particular, two immigrant brothers with a fractured sense of identity, culture and family, who are forced to the limits as they find out that blood is thicker than water — but you can drown in both.

“I am looking forward to working with Cineflix Rights to share this amazing tale with viewers around the world.”

Ibrahim recently became a father for the third time.