Conception The BBC had been developing the idea of a new series based on
The Three Musketeers since as far back as 2007, when the project was envisaged as a Saturday evening show to run between series of
Doctor Who. The eventual production of the series was finally announced in 2012, with
Adrian Hodges in charge of the project.
Filming Paris was not considered as a filming location because over the decades, development had detracted from the grittier architecture wanted. Dublin was also considered before settling on the Czech Republic, which suffered little damage during the two world wars. Many historic buildings were intact and privately owned stately homes were rented for filming. Filming for the series took place mainly in
Doksany, 30 km NW of
Prague, where a Parisian square, a number of streets, and the musketeers' garrison were constructed. A disused convent had additional sets constructed including taverns, bedrooms and mortuary.
Casting During filming of the first series Peter Capaldi learned that he had been given the role of the
Twelfth Doctor in
Doctor Who. The show's executive producer Jessica Pope commented they would have to "recalibrate" plans for a prospective second series to accommodate Capaldi now being unable to reprise his role.
The Musketeers was originally planned to be broadcast in 2013, but was later delayed until 2014. ==Reception==