Amsterdam Empire is a new Netflix crime series. It stars Dutch actress Famke Janssen. She returns to her native Netherlands for this role. Janssen plays Betty Jonkers. She is a former pop star. The series premieres on October 30, 2025. All episodes will stream at once.
A Star’s Homecoming and Creative Control
Famke Janssen takes on the lead role. She portrays Betty. Betty discovers her husband’s affair. This betrayal fuels her desire for revenge. Janssen also serves as an executive producer. She co-designed many of Betty’s costumes. This marks her first time acting in Dutch. She calls the experience exhilarating. Janssen finds it rewarding to have more creative control. She wanted to ensure Betty felt human. Her anger stems from pain. Janssen shaped the character to be complex. She describes acting in Dutch as different. It feels like a different part of her. She is excited to work with Netflix again. This is a major return to her roots.
The Dark Side of the Cannabis Trade
The series is set in Amsterdam’s cannabis scene. Jack van Doorn built a powerful coffee shop empire. His business is known as “The Jackal.” He is a charismatic tycoon. However, growing cannabis is illegal in the Netherlands. This creates a dangerous underworld. The family’s illegal operations attract attention. Rival factions and law enforcement take notice. The plot involves crime, corruption, and family warfare. It delves into the dark reality of this industry. The show promises a blend of glamour and grit. It explores revenge and reinvention. It is a pulpy, fun crime series.
A High-Stakes Revenge Plot
Betty’s life implodes with her husband’s infidelity. He has an affair with a younger woman. Jack wants to buy Betty off with money. She refuses his offer. Instead, Betty plans to destroy his entire cannabis empire. She knows all his weaknesses and secrets. This sets off a fierce battle. Gangsters, police, and lovers get involved. Betty transforms from a betrayed wife to a mastermind. She is smart and calculating. She will stop at nothing to get what she wants. The story is a stylish revenge thriller. It features high-stakes power plays. It is a deeply intoxicating narrative. The constant payback between Betty and Jack is devillish fun.
Amsterdam as a Character
The series is filmed on location in Amsterdam. The city itself feels like a character. It is described as gritty and glamorous. The show captures Amsterdam’s unique atmosphere. It contrasts the city’s beauty with its dark underbelly. This authentic backdrop enhances the drama. The series offers a nuanced look at the global weed industry. Viewers will experience the local dynamics. It promises a realistic portrayal. Cannabis expert Amy Goodman advised on the show. This ensures accuracy in depicting marijuana culture.
Creative Forces Behind the Series
Amsterdam Empire was created by a talented team. Nico Moolenaar, Bart Uytdenhouwen, and Piet Matthys are the minds behind it. They are known for popular Dutch hits like Undercover and Ferry. Jonas Govaerts and Max Porcelijn directed the series. Pupkin and A Team Productions produced the show. The series has seven episodes. It aims for a tightly woven narrative. There is no filler in the storytelling. Many view this new crime drama as compelling. It could become Netflix’s next big hit. This related tv series adds to streaming’s crime drama offerings.
Anticipation for a New Hit
Famke Janssen’s return to Dutch cinema is significant. Her performance as Betty is described as daring. She drew inspiration from 90s pop stars. This includes Paula Abdul for Betty’s style. Janssen even performed a music video for her character. The series explores themes of power, betrayal, and survival. It is a captivating crime drama. Fans of intense stories will find it engaging. Amsterdam Empire offers a potent mix of action and drama. It is a must-watch for fans of themed tv and movies. News about its release has generated excitement.
