ZDF Studios will handle the worldwide distribution of Grand Hotel by the Sea, the Netherlands’ first romantic period drama. The eight-part series, produced by Amsterdam-based Big Blue in co-production with Dutch broadcaster KRO-NCRV and Belgian broadcaster VRT, is set to premiere at the end of 2026.
Created by producer and showrunner Fleur Winters (THE CRASH, Emmy-nominated Heirs of the Night, Rose d’Or winner Dome 16), written by Astrid van Keulen (Knokke Off, The Club), and directed by Aniëlle Webster (Swanenburg, Nemesis), the series transports viewers to Noordwijk on the North Sea coast between 1912 and 1919.
The story follows Sandra, played by multi-award-winning actress Thekla Reuten (Narcosis, Warrior Nun, In Bruges), who inherits a luxury seaside hotel from her late husband. Determined to transform it into a premier destination for Europe’s elite, Sandra navigates societal limitations and personal challenges in the early 20th century. The lives of the women connected to the hotel evolve alongside its transformation, exploring themes of ambition, independence, and love.
The ensemble cast also features Golden Calf nominee Joes Brauers (Do Not Hesitate, Hardcore Never Dies) as Sandra’s eldest son, Florence Vos Weeda (De slet van 6vwo) as the ambitious maid Kathelijne, and Mustafa Duygulu (Arcadia, Nemesis) as Dr. Kessels, the hotel’s trusted physician and confidant.
The series blends lavish costumes, intricate sets, romance, and intrigue, offering a vivid portrait of a society in transition and the intersecting lives of hotel guests, staff, and villagers during a turbulent historical period.
Tim Gerhartz, Chief Commercial Officer of ZDF Studios, said:
"We are thrilled to partner with Big Blue on this outstanding and ambitious series. Grand Hotel by the Sea offers everything international audiences love: a richly detailed world, compelling characters, and a sweeping emotional narrative set during a fascinating period of European history."
Fleur Winters, CEO and Producer at Big Blue, added:
"From the very beginning, we envisioned Grand Hotel by the Sea as a series that resonates far beyond the Netherlands. We are proud that our collaboration with ZDF Studios allows us to share this visually stunning story with a global audience."
About ZDF Studios
ZDF Studios, a commercial subsidiary of ZDF, one of Europe’s largest TV broadcasters, manages global programme distribution, international co-productions, licensing, and merchandising. Headquartered in Mainz, Germany, ZDF Studios oversees a diverse portfolio of scripted and unscripted content, including series, mini-series, films, documentaries, and children’s programming, reaching audiences worldwide.
With its integrated media approach, ZDF Studios fosters the development of high-quality, innovative programmes while providing a creative environment for international talent.
