Prime Video's 'Scarpetta' Brings Autopsy Training to the Small Screen

Cast and showrunner discuss working with a medical examiner to ensure authenticity.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The cast of the new Prime Video series 'Scarpetta' worked closely with a medical examiner, Dr. Amy Hawes, to learn proper autopsy techniques for their roles. Showrunner Liz Sarnoff explained that the actors, including Nicole Kidman and Rosy McEwen who share the lead role, 'taught them how to hold a scalpel, how to remove an organ — and they got quite good at it, actually.' The series features two timelines, with McEwen playing the younger Kay Scarpetta and Kidman as the older version of the forensic pathologist.

Why it matters

The attention to detail in the autopsy scenes reflects the show's commitment to authenticity and realism, which is important for a crime drama series. It also highlights the growing use of medical experts as consultants on TV and film productions to ensure accurate portrayals of medical procedures.

The details

According to Sarnoff, the production never filmed a crime scene, morgue, or other medical sequence without consulting Dr. Hawes to ensure the accuracy of the actors' movements and techniques. This level of medical expertise helps to lend credibility to the show's depiction of forensic pathology.

  • The new Prime Video series 'Scarpetta' premiered on March 5, 2026.

The players

Nicole Kidman

An Academy Award-winning actress who plays the older version of the titular forensic pathologist in 'Scarpetta'.

Rosy McEwen

An up-and-coming actress who shares the lead role of Kay Scarpetta, playing the younger version of the character.

Liz Sarnoff

The showrunner of 'Scarpetta' who oversaw the production's efforts to ensure authenticity in the medical scenes.

Dr. Amy Hawes

A medical examiner who served as a consultant on 'Scarpetta' to train the cast on proper autopsy techniques.

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What they’re saying

“[Hawes] taught them how to hold a scalpel, how to remove an organ — and they got quite good at it, actually.”

— Liz Sarnoff, Showrunner (Variety)

What’s next

The series is expected to continue exploring the world of forensic pathology and the rise of new technologies, such as AI simulations, that are impacting the field.

The takeaway

The meticulous attention to detail in the autopsy scenes of 'Scarpetta' underscores the show's commitment to realism and authenticity, which is crucial for a crime drama series delving into the complex world of forensic science.