Poppy Drayton lands lead in MTV fantasy series 'Shannara'

MTV has cast its first lead in its upcoming fantasy series Shannara.

When Calls the Heart actress Poppy Drayton has landed a lead role as Elf Princess Amberle, EW has confirmed.

The 10-episode drama series, written by Smallville duo Al Gough and Miles Millar, is based on the fantasy books by Terry Brooks, considered one of the most popular fantasy series in history. Set thousands of years after our civilization has been destroyed, the series follows the Shannara family, whose descendants are empowered with ancient magic and whose adventures continuously reshape the future of the world.

Season 1 will be based on The Elfstones Of Shannara, the second title in Brooks’ series.

According to Deadline, who first reported the news, Drayton’s Amberle is “agile, fit and capable” and is the first woman to become one of the Chosen, who are responsible for the protection and care of the ancient Ellcrys tree. “But unlike the rest of the Chosen, Amberle’s dangerous and heroic journey is just beginning,” Deadline writes.

Jonathan Liebesman (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) will direct the first two episodes. He’ll also executive produce the series alongside Gough, Millar, Brooks, Dan Farah, and Jon Favreau (Iron Man).