Merlin is a British
fantasy-
adventure television programme created by Julian Jones, Jake Michie, Julian Murphy, and Johnny Capps, starring
Colin Morgan in the title role. It was broadcast on
BBC One from 20 September 2008 to 24 December 2012 for a total of 65 episodes. The show is loosely based on the
Arthurian legends of the young wizard
Merlin and his relationship with
King Arthur, but it differs from traditional versions. The show was influenced by the US drama series
Smallville about the early years of Superman, and was produced by independent production company
Shine Limited.