MUMBAI: The Viacom owned US broadcast network CBS has announced that a new mini series Elvis will start production in New Orleans in January 2005.

The fact-based drama is about the life of pop icon Elvis Presley. With the full cooperation and participation of the Elvis Presley Estate, his electrifying yet tumultuous story -- from his humble beginnings to his meteoric rise to fame -- will be told. Presley's master recordings will be heard in a biographical film for the first time.

The series will see Jonathan Rhys-Meyers Bend It Like Beckham playing the lead role. Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner Camryn Manheim The Practice stars as Gladys Presley;

Elvis Presley's dynamic life story begins in the state of Mississipi where he was born into poverty to Vernon and Gladys Presley. His looks, talent and moves helped to make him the universally proclaimed King of Rock 'n' Roll by the age of 21.

With a sneer on his lips and a swivel in his hips, he burst on the scene with a unique style that provided a catalyst for a revolution in music and popular culture unequaled by any other performer.

His life was shaped by the people closest to him, including his father; his over-protective mother, whom he adored, and his domineering manager, "Colonel" Tom Parker. Although Presley was a sex symbol who made legions of women swoon, his personal liaisons, including his relationships with the actress Ann-Margret and his young bride Priscilla, were troubled. Known the world over by his first name, he is regarded as one of the most important figures of the 20th century. Presley died at the age of 42