Polish broadcaster orders a remake of a Ukrainian favorite, featuring a rising star and a familiar political twist
A Polish television studio has announced a remake of the Ukrainian comedy Servant of the People, a show that catapulted Ukrainian actor and politician Volodymyr Zelensky into the international spotlight. In the Polish project, a young native talent named Marcin Gitsnar is slated to take the lead role. The premise stays true to the original: an ordinary citizen unexpectedly rises to the presidency and begins a transformative journey that aims to reshape the nation for the better.
Servant of the People first aired on the Ukrainian channel 1+1 from 2015 through 2019. Its impact extended beyond entertainment, influencing political discourse by the end of its run. The series was later associated with the real-life presidential bid of Zelensky, who used the same title for his political platform when he announced his candidacy in early 2019, turning fiction into a symbol of political momentum and public optimism.
Observers note that the storyline resonates across borders, particularly in neighboring Poland, where the government has shown strong support for Zelensky and his leadership amid ongoing regional tensions. Poland has also welcomed a substantial number of Ukrainian refugees, reflecting a deeply rooted sense of solidarity. Official data indicate a significant cross-border flow since the onset of the latest crisis, with millions of people making the journey between Ukraine and Poland as circumstances evolved. This context adds a layer of cultural relevance to the Polish remake, inviting audiences to reflect on leadership, resilience, and national rebuilding in times of upheaval.
The remake’s casting underscores a commitment to local storytelling while maintaining the core charm of the original. By centering a Polish actor in the lead, the project aims to capture the universal appeal of an everyman thrust into the reins of power. Creators emphasize that the show’s humor, heart, and social commentary will remain at the forefront, offering viewers a blend of entertainment and thoughtful reflection on governance, civic responsibility, and the everyday challenges faced by citizens. The production team also signals a careful approach to adapting cultural specifics for a Polish audience, ensuring the premise stays accessible and relevant without losing the essence that made the original resonate across borders. The collaboration reflects a broader trend of cross-border adaptation of successful formats, highlighting how stories about leadership and public service can transcend national boundaries while still speaking to local audiences. (The Hollywood Reporter) “The events in neighboring Ukraine are of particular interest to Poland”, a sentiment echoed by industry observers who see the project as part of a larger conversation about regional solidarity, media influence, and the evolving relationship between entertainment and public life. (The Hollywood Reporter)