Hollywood legend Richard Gere is to headline the cast of a new BBC Two drama written by Tom Rob Smith (Child 44, London Spy, The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story).
In MotherFatherSon Gere will play Max, a charismatic self-made American businessman with media outlets in London and around the world.
He’ll be joined by Helen McCrory as Kathryn, a British heiress who has been estranged from Max following the breakdown of their marriage some years before.
Their 30 year-old son, Caden (Billy Howle), runs Max’s UK newspaper and is primed to follow in his father’s footsteps as one of the most powerful men in the world.
But when Caden’s self-destructive lifestyle spirals out of control, the devastating consequences threaten the future of the family, its empire, and a country on the brink of change.
Gere said: “It’s been almost 30 years since I worked in television. I’m so pleased to be working now with the BBC on this extraordinary 8 hour project with such talented people and which resonates so much to the time we live in.”
Co-star McCrory added: “Tom Rob Smith has written the most astonishing script – completely original and full of surprises.”
“Telling this story was always going to depend upon gathering an extraordinary cast,” said Tom Rob Smith.
“Richard Gere has starred in some of the most famous movies of all time. His roles are iconic and complex.
“He’s joined by the remarkable Helen McCrory, showcasing heartbreaking emotional tenderness and immense power.
“And completing the central family is Billy Howle, one of the most exciting young actors I’ve ever had the privilege of watching perform.
“Under the brilliant direction of James Kent, the show promises to be something special for the BBC.”
Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama, commented: “The scripts for MotherFatherSon seal Tom Rob Smith’s reputation as one of the most individual and original writers of his age.
“We are thrilled that in Richard, Helen and Billy he has found the perfect eponymous lead characters to bring his series to life.”
Filming will begin this summer in London and on location in Spain. Further casting will be announced in due course.