Jella Haase to Star in ARD's New Series Adaptation of 'Die Päpstin'

The bestselling historical novel about a legendary female pope is being reimagined as a modern miniseries for 2025.

The ARD has announced plans to adapt Donna Woolfolk Cross's 1996 novel 'Die Päpstin' into a miniseries, set to begin production this year.
Jella Haase, known for her breakout role in 'Fack ju Göhte,' will play the lead role of Joan, a woman disguising herself as a man in medieval Rome.
The series will present a fresh and contemporary take on the historical story, with connections to present-day themes, according to producer Oliver Berben.
This marks the second adaptation of the novel, following a 2009 film directed by Sönke Wortmann, in which Johanna Wokalek starred as the titular character.
The project is one of ARD's major fictional productions for 2025, highlighting its investment in high-profile historical dramas.