Exclusive: Apple TV+ has rounded out the ensemble cast for Season 3 of sci-fi series Foundation with new series regulars. Game of Thrones alum Pilou Asbæk joins the series in a recasting as Warlord aka The Mule, taking over for Mikael Persbrandt, who recurred as the character in Season 2. He joins Emmy winner Cherry Jones (Succession), Synnøve Karlsen (Last Night in Soho), Cody Fern (American Horror Story), Brandon P. Bell (Dear White People), Tómas Lemarquis (Blade Runner 2049), Yootha Wong-Loi-Sing (Really Love) and Leo Bill (Becoming Elizabeth) along with returning stars Lee Pace and Jared Harris.
They join two previously announced new additions: Coda Oscar winner Troy Kotsur and Alexander Siddig. Foundation hails from series co-developer/executive producer/showrunner David S. Goyer.
Based on Isaac Asimov’s trilogy, the series chronicles the saga of The Foundation, a band of exiles who discover that the only way to save the Galactic Empire...
They join two previously announced new additions: Coda Oscar winner Troy Kotsur and Alexander Siddig. Foundation hails from series co-developer/executive producer/showrunner David S. Goyer.
Based on Isaac Asimov’s trilogy, the series chronicles the saga of The Foundation, a band of exiles who discover that the only way to save the Galactic Empire...
- 3/21/2024
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Troy Kotsur has joined Season 3 of “Foundation” at Apple TV+.
The role will mark a return to Apple for Kotsur, who previously starred in the film “Coda,” which was distributed by the streaming arm of the tech giant.
In “Foundation,” Kotsur will appear in the role of Preem Palver, described as “the leader of a planet of psychics.” He joins returning series leads Lee Pace and Jared Harris in the sci-fi epic.
Kotsur won the Academy Award for best supporting actor for his role in “Coda,” with the film also winning best picture and best adapted screenplay. With the win, Kotsur became only the second deaf actor in history to win an Academy Award, after his “Coda” co-star Marlee Matlin, who won the best actress Oscar in 1987. Kotsur’s recent roles include an appearance as himself in the final season of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and an appearance in Season 1 of “The Mandalorian.
The role will mark a return to Apple for Kotsur, who previously starred in the film “Coda,” which was distributed by the streaming arm of the tech giant.
In “Foundation,” Kotsur will appear in the role of Preem Palver, described as “the leader of a planet of psychics.” He joins returning series leads Lee Pace and Jared Harris in the sci-fi epic.
Kotsur won the Academy Award for best supporting actor for his role in “Coda,” with the film also winning best picture and best adapted screenplay. With the win, Kotsur became only the second deaf actor in history to win an Academy Award, after his “Coda” co-star Marlee Matlin, who won the best actress Oscar in 1987. Kotsur’s recent roles include an appearance as himself in the final season of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and an appearance in Season 1 of “The Mandalorian.
- 2/22/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Oscar-winning actor Troy Kotsur has joined the cast of Foundation season three.
The Coda star will play Preem Palver, the leader of a planet of psychics in the sci-fi epic. Based on Issac Asimov’s novels, Foundation is from showrunner David S. Goyer and stars Lee Pace and Jared Harris.
Here’s the official description of the most recent season of the centuries-spanning story: “Tension mounts throughout the galaxy. As the Cleons unravel, a vengeful queen plots to destroy Empire from within. Hari, Gaal, and Salvor discover a colony of Mentalics with psionic abilities that threaten to alter psychohistory itself. The Foundation has entered its religious phase, promulgating the Church of Seldon throughout the Outer Reach and inciting the Second Crisis: war with Empire. The monumental adaptation of Foundation chronicles the stories of four crucial individuals transcending space and time as they overcome deadly crises, shifting loyalties and complicated relationships...
The Coda star will play Preem Palver, the leader of a planet of psychics in the sci-fi epic. Based on Issac Asimov’s novels, Foundation is from showrunner David S. Goyer and stars Lee Pace and Jared Harris.
Here’s the official description of the most recent season of the centuries-spanning story: “Tension mounts throughout the galaxy. As the Cleons unravel, a vengeful queen plots to destroy Empire from within. Hari, Gaal, and Salvor discover a colony of Mentalics with psionic abilities that threaten to alter psychohistory itself. The Foundation has entered its religious phase, promulgating the Church of Seldon throughout the Outer Reach and inciting the Second Crisis: war with Empire. The monumental adaptation of Foundation chronicles the stories of four crucial individuals transcending space and time as they overcome deadly crises, shifting loyalties and complicated relationships...
- 2/22/2024
- by James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Apple TV+’s Foundation is expanding its Season 3 cast with Alexander Siddig (Shantaram) joining the epic saga as a new series regular.
Based on Isaac Asimov’s trilogy, Foundation, starring Jared Harris and Lee Pace, chronicles the epic saga of The Foundation, a band of exiles who discover that the only way to save the Galactic Empire from destruction is to defy it. The series hails from showrunner and executive producer Goyer and Skydance Television.
Siddig will play Dr. Ebling Mis, a self-taught psychohistorian and diehard fan of Hari Seldon (Harris).
Season 2 of Foundation is set more than a century after the season one finale, with tension mounting throughout the galaxy. As the Cleons unravel, a vengeful queen plots to destroy Empire from within. Hari, Gaal, and Salvor discover a colony of Mentalics with psionic abilities that threaten to alter psychohistory itself. The Foundation has entered its religious phase,...
Based on Isaac Asimov’s trilogy, Foundation, starring Jared Harris and Lee Pace, chronicles the epic saga of The Foundation, a band of exiles who discover that the only way to save the Galactic Empire from destruction is to defy it. The series hails from showrunner and executive producer Goyer and Skydance Television.
Siddig will play Dr. Ebling Mis, a self-taught psychohistorian and diehard fan of Hari Seldon (Harris).
Season 2 of Foundation is set more than a century after the season one finale, with tension mounting throughout the galaxy. As the Cleons unravel, a vengeful queen plots to destroy Empire from within. Hari, Gaal, and Salvor discover a colony of Mentalics with psionic abilities that threaten to alter psychohistory itself. The Foundation has entered its religious phase,...
- 12/13/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Stuntman-turned-director Chad Stahelski is keeping awfully busy these days. The "John Wick" creator is set to release the fourth installment of the action-packed franchise, and according to The Hollywood Reporter he has just been tapped to direct the upcoming "Black Samurai" movie for Netflix. Stahelski is teaming up with Leigh Dana Jackson, one of the co-executive producers of the superpower series "Raising Dion" to write the script, which will be an adaptation of Marc Olden's "Black Samurai" novel series.
Netflix hasn't provided much information regarding the film, but the "Black Samurai" book series is comprised of eight novels, all Blaxploitation stories set in the 1970s and centered on American soldier Robert Sand, who is on leave in Japan and learns the most powerful forms of martial arts to become the Black Samurai. It seems safe to assume that the film will focus on the vengeance plot of the first...
Netflix hasn't provided much information regarding the film, but the "Black Samurai" book series is comprised of eight novels, all Blaxploitation stories set in the 1970s and centered on American soldier Robert Sand, who is on leave in Japan and learns the most powerful forms of martial arts to become the Black Samurai. It seems safe to assume that the film will focus on the vengeance plot of the first...
- 10/20/2022
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
Netflix is moving forward with its feature film adaptation of the popular Black Samurai novels as it has tapped Chad Stahelski to direct and Leigh Dana Jackson to adapt. Stahelski will also produce along with Jason Spitz and Alex Young for 87Eleven Entertainment as well as John Schoenfelder and Russell Ackerman for Addictive Pictures.
The Black Samurai novels are a series of books by famed thriller writer Marc Olden revolving around the character Robert Sand, an American soldier in Japan who learns the ways of the most powerful martial arts and becomes the Black Samurai, embarking on a mission to stop dangerous forces who threaten everything he holds dear.
Diane Crafford will exec produce along with Liza Fleissig and Andre Gaines of Cinemation Studios.
Stahelski is best known as the man behind the camera for the John Wick franchise, having directed every installment. He is currently in post-production on John Wick 4, which bows next year.
The Black Samurai novels are a series of books by famed thriller writer Marc Olden revolving around the character Robert Sand, an American soldier in Japan who learns the ways of the most powerful martial arts and becomes the Black Samurai, embarking on a mission to stop dangerous forces who threaten everything he holds dear.
Diane Crafford will exec produce along with Liza Fleissig and Andre Gaines of Cinemation Studios.
Stahelski is best known as the man behind the camera for the John Wick franchise, having directed every installment. He is currently in post-production on John Wick 4, which bows next year.
- 10/20/2022
- by Justin Kroll
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
John Wick filmmaker Chad Stahelski has teamed up with Leigh Dana Jackson, a co-executive producer on kid-with-superpowers series Raising Dion, to tackle Netflix’s adaptation of Marc Olden’s Black Samurai novels.
Stahelski will direct, while Jackson is set to write.
Stahelski will also produce along with Jason Spitz and Alex Young of his banner 87Eleven Entertainment. John Schoenfelder and Russell Ackerman of Addictive Pictures, who were instrumental in securing the rights, are also producing.
Details on Netflix’s take were as thin as the very best katana blades, but Olden’s eight blaxploitation books, published in the 1970s, center on Robert Sand, an American soldier in Japan who learns the ways of the most powerful martial arts and becomes the Black Samurai.
The first novel saw him embarking on a mission of vengeance. The other books were globe-trotting thrillers that featured power-mad millionaires,...
John Wick filmmaker Chad Stahelski has teamed up with Leigh Dana Jackson, a co-executive producer on kid-with-superpowers series Raising Dion, to tackle Netflix’s adaptation of Marc Olden’s Black Samurai novels.
Stahelski will direct, while Jackson is set to write.
Stahelski will also produce along with Jason Spitz and Alex Young of his banner 87Eleven Entertainment. John Schoenfelder and Russell Ackerman of Addictive Pictures, who were instrumental in securing the rights, are also producing.
Details on Netflix’s take were as thin as the very best katana blades, but Olden’s eight blaxploitation books, published in the 1970s, center on Robert Sand, an American soldier in Japan who learns the ways of the most powerful martial arts and becomes the Black Samurai.
The first novel saw him embarking on a mission of vengeance. The other books were globe-trotting thrillers that featured power-mad millionaires,...
- 10/20/2022
- by Borys Kit
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
FX, Lee Daniels and 20th Television are taking another stab at adapting Sam Greenlee’s spy novel The Spook Who Sat By The Door as a TV series after a pilot, written by Leigh Dana Jackson and directed by Gerard McMurray did not go forward at the network.
“We are working on a redeveloping of it,” FX Entertainment President Eric Schrier told Deadline Thursday during an interview tied to the network’s TCA presentation. “Lee Daniels is still involved, and they are working on it. We are reworking on the development side of it, we are not going forward with the current pilot, which Leigh Dana Jackson tweeted about awhile ago.”
The Spook Who Sat By The Door has been a passion project for Daniels who optioned Greenlee’s book in 2018 through his Inclusion Fund. A year later, the project was set up at FX with Jackson as writer and showrunner.
“We are working on a redeveloping of it,” FX Entertainment President Eric Schrier told Deadline Thursday during an interview tied to the network’s TCA presentation. “Lee Daniels is still involved, and they are working on it. We are reworking on the development side of it, we are not going forward with the current pilot, which Leigh Dana Jackson tweeted about awhile ago.”
The Spook Who Sat By The Door has been a passion project for Daniels who optioned Greenlee’s book in 2018 through his Inclusion Fund. A year later, the project was set up at FX with Jackson as writer and showrunner.
- 2/18/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
The Spook Who Sat by the Door has hit the exit at FX, with Variety reporting that the cabler has opted not to move forward with the Y’lan Noel-led spy drama. A pilot was shot last year. FX will reportedly redevelop the project.
Based on the novel by Sam Greenlee, the 1960s-set project — from executive producer Lee Daniels (Empire) and writer/showrunner Leigh Dana Jackson (Raising Dion) — follows Dan Freeman (Noel), the first Black operative in the CIA. He is a patriot, a Vietnam veteran and, secretly, a revolutionary. In the book, which is based in part on Greenlee...
Based on the novel by Sam Greenlee, the 1960s-set project — from executive producer Lee Daniels (Empire) and writer/showrunner Leigh Dana Jackson (Raising Dion) — follows Dan Freeman (Noel), the first Black operative in the CIA. He is a patriot, a Vietnam veteran and, secretly, a revolutionary. In the book, which is based in part on Greenlee...
- 2/18/2022
- by Michael Ausiello
- TVLine.com
TV’s former MacGyver has fashioned himself a new job.
Lucas Till has boarded FX’s The Spook Who Sat by the Door drama pilot, along with Nafessa Williams (of the also-recently-ended Black Lightning), Nathan Darrow (House of Cards) and Tom Irwin (Devious Maids).
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Based on the novel by Sam Greenlee, the 1960s-set Spook stars Y’lan Noel (Insecure) as Dan Freeman, the first Black operative in the CIA. A patriot, Vietnam veteran and, secretly, a revolutionary, Freeman goes through high-level combat and espionage training,...
Lucas Till has boarded FX’s The Spook Who Sat by the Door drama pilot, along with Nafessa Williams (of the also-recently-ended Black Lightning), Nathan Darrow (House of Cards) and Tom Irwin (Devious Maids).
More from TVLineMacGyver: Scoop on MacRiley's First KissMacGyver Season 6 Would Have Delivered a Baby for [Spoiler]Breeders Renewed for Season 3 at FX
Based on the novel by Sam Greenlee, the 1960s-set Spook stars Y’lan Noel (Insecure) as Dan Freeman, the first Black operative in the CIA. A patriot, Vietnam veteran and, secretly, a revolutionary, Freeman goes through high-level combat and espionage training,...
- 5/27/2021
- by Rebecca Iannucci
- TVLine.com
Lucas Till (MacGyver), Nafessa Williams (Black Lightning), Nathan Darrow (Preacher) and Tom Irwin (The Morning Show) have joined the cast of Lee Daniels’ FX pilot The Spook Who Sat by the Door.
They join previously announced cast members Y’lan Noel and Christina Jackson in the TV adaptation of Sam Greenlee’s spy novel. Production is underway.
The potential series will tell the fictional story of Dan Freeman (Noel), a patriot and Vietnam vet, who is recruited as the only Black operative in the CIA as part of an affirmative-action program in the late 1960s. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is rewarded with a post in the reprographics (aka photocopying) department, “left by the door” as a token of the CIA’s “racial equality.”
Till is set for the role of CIA agent Graham Renfroe,...
They join previously announced cast members Y’lan Noel and Christina Jackson in the TV adaptation of Sam Greenlee’s spy novel. Production is underway.
The potential series will tell the fictional story of Dan Freeman (Noel), a patriot and Vietnam vet, who is recruited as the only Black operative in the CIA as part of an affirmative-action program in the late 1960s. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is rewarded with a post in the reprographics (aka photocopying) department, “left by the door” as a token of the CIA’s “racial equality.”
Till is set for the role of CIA agent Graham Renfroe,...
- 5/27/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
“The Spook Who Sat by the Door” pilot at FX has rounded out its main cast with four new additions.
Lucas Till, Nafessa Williams, Nathan Darrow and Tom Irwin have all joined the drama pilot alongside previously announced leads Y’lan Noel and Christina Jackson.
The story follows Dan Freeman (Noel), the fictional first African American CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s. The story chronicles the quest of Freeman, who was recruited as part of an affirmative-action program. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is rewarded with a post in the reprographics (aka photocopying) department, “left by the door” as a token of the CIA’s “racial equality.” Jackson will star as his wife, Joy Freeman.
Till is set for the role of CIA agent Graham Renfroe. He most recently starred in the CBS reboot of “MacGyver,...
Lucas Till, Nafessa Williams, Nathan Darrow and Tom Irwin have all joined the drama pilot alongside previously announced leads Y’lan Noel and Christina Jackson.
The story follows Dan Freeman (Noel), the fictional first African American CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s. The story chronicles the quest of Freeman, who was recruited as part of an affirmative-action program. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is rewarded with a post in the reprographics (aka photocopying) department, “left by the door” as a token of the CIA’s “racial equality.” Jackson will star as his wife, Joy Freeman.
Till is set for the role of CIA agent Graham Renfroe. He most recently starred in the CBS reboot of “MacGyver,...
- 5/27/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Christina Jackson (Outsiders) has been tapped as the female lead opposite Y’lan Noel in The Spook Who Sat by the Door, FX’s drama pilot based on Sam Greenlee’s spy novel, which is executive produced by Lee Daniels.
Written by Leigh Dana Jackson and to be directed by Gerard McMurray, The Spook Who Sat by the Door tells at the fictional story of Dan Freeman (Noel), who has just been hired as the only Black operative in the CIA. He is a patriot, a Vietnam vet, and secretly, a Black Revolutionary.
Jackson will play Joy Freeman, an up-and-coming attorney committed to making a difference in her community and Dan’s (Noel) wife.
Greenlee’s book, published in 1969, was turned into a 1973 feature film, in which the roles of Dan Freeman and Joy Freeman were played by Lawrence Cook and Janet League, respectively.
2020-21 FX Pilots & Series Orders
The Spook Who Sat by the Door...
Written by Leigh Dana Jackson and to be directed by Gerard McMurray, The Spook Who Sat by the Door tells at the fictional story of Dan Freeman (Noel), who has just been hired as the only Black operative in the CIA. He is a patriot, a Vietnam vet, and secretly, a Black Revolutionary.
Jackson will play Joy Freeman, an up-and-coming attorney committed to making a difference in her community and Dan’s (Noel) wife.
Greenlee’s book, published in 1969, was turned into a 1973 feature film, in which the roles of Dan Freeman and Joy Freeman were played by Lawrence Cook and Janet League, respectively.
2020-21 FX Pilots & Series Orders
The Spook Who Sat by the Door...
- 4/14/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Christina Jackson has been cast in a leading role in the FX pilot based on the Sam Greenlee novel “The Spook Who Sat by the Door,” Variety has learned.
The project was ordered to pilot at FX in February. Jackson will star opposite series lead Y’lan Noel. She will play Joy Freeman, an up-and-coming attorney committed to making a difference in her community and Dan’s (Noel) wife.
“The Spook Who Sat By The Door” was previously adapted into a film in 1973 with Lawrence Cook in the lead role. The story follows Dan Freeman, the fictional first African American CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s. The story chronicles the quest of Freeman, who was recruited as part of an affirmative-action program. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is rewarded with a...
The project was ordered to pilot at FX in February. Jackson will star opposite series lead Y’lan Noel. She will play Joy Freeman, an up-and-coming attorney committed to making a difference in her community and Dan’s (Noel) wife.
“The Spook Who Sat By The Door” was previously adapted into a film in 1973 with Lawrence Cook in the lead role. The story follows Dan Freeman, the fictional first African American CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s. The story chronicles the quest of Freeman, who was recruited as part of an affirmative-action program. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is rewarded with a...
- 4/14/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Insecure alum Y’lan Noel is entering the spy game: The actor will star in the FX drama pilot The Spook Who Sat by the Door, from executive producer Lee Daniels (Empire) and writer/showrunner Leigh Dana Jackson (Raising Dion), per The Hollywood Reporter.
Based on the novel by Sam Greenlee, the 1960s-set project follows Dan Freeman (Noel), the first Black operative in the CIA. He is a patriot, a Vietnam veteran and, secretly, a revolutionary. In the book, which is based in part on Greenlee’s experience at the United States Information Agency, Freeman goes through high-level combat and espionage training,...
Based on the novel by Sam Greenlee, the 1960s-set project follows Dan Freeman (Noel), the first Black operative in the CIA. He is a patriot, a Vietnam veteran and, secretly, a revolutionary. In the book, which is based in part on Greenlee’s experience at the United States Information Agency, Freeman goes through high-level combat and espionage training,...
- 3/22/2021
- by Vlada Gelman
- TVLine.com
Y’lan Noel has been cast as Dan Freeman, the protagonist in the FX adaptation of Sam Greenlee’s spy novel, “The Spook Who Sat By the Door,” which is being executive produced by Lee Daniels. The project is in pilot production at the premium cabler.
In “Spook,” the fictional Freeman is the first Black CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s, who has trained in high-level combat and espionage. He is described as “a patriot, a Vietnam vet, and secretly, a Black Revolutionary.”
Noel, known for playing Daniel in Issa Rae’s “Insecure” on HBO, was most recently in the Stella Maghie romantic drama “The Photograph” from Universal Pictures last year alongside Rae, Lakeith Stanfield and Chelsea Peretti. He can also be seen in the upcoming Mo McRae-directed “A Lot of Nothing” opposite Cleopatra Coleman and Lex Scott Davis. Noel was previously in Meghie’s indie...
In “Spook,” the fictional Freeman is the first Black CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s, who has trained in high-level combat and espionage. He is described as “a patriot, a Vietnam vet, and secretly, a Black Revolutionary.”
Noel, known for playing Daniel in Issa Rae’s “Insecure” on HBO, was most recently in the Stella Maghie romantic drama “The Photograph” from Universal Pictures last year alongside Rae, Lakeith Stanfield and Chelsea Peretti. He can also be seen in the upcoming Mo McRae-directed “A Lot of Nothing” opposite Cleopatra Coleman and Lex Scott Davis. Noel was previously in Meghie’s indie...
- 3/22/2021
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Insecure alum Y’lan Noel has been tapped as the lead in The Spook Who Sat by the Door, FX’s drama pilot based on Sam Greenlee’s spy novel, which is executive produced by Lee Daniels.
Written by Leigh Dana Jackson and to be directed by Gerard McMurray, The Spook Who Sat by the Door tells at the fictional story of Dan Freeman (Noel), who has just been hired as the only Black operative in the CIA. He is a patriot, a Vietnam vet, and secretly, a Black Revolutionary.
The project reunites Noel and McMurray after Noel headlined the 2018 Universal feature The First Purge, the prequel to the Purge franchise, which McMurray directed.
Greenlee’s book was published in 1969 and turned into a feature film in 1973, in which Lawrence Cook starred as Dan Freeman.
2020-21 FX Pilots & Series Orders
The Spook Who Sat by the Door is produced by 20th Television.
Written by Leigh Dana Jackson and to be directed by Gerard McMurray, The Spook Who Sat by the Door tells at the fictional story of Dan Freeman (Noel), who has just been hired as the only Black operative in the CIA. He is a patriot, a Vietnam vet, and secretly, a Black Revolutionary.
The project reunites Noel and McMurray after Noel headlined the 2018 Universal feature The First Purge, the prequel to the Purge franchise, which McMurray directed.
Greenlee’s book was published in 1969 and turned into a feature film in 1973, in which Lawrence Cook starred as Dan Freeman.
2020-21 FX Pilots & Series Orders
The Spook Who Sat by the Door is produced by 20th Television.
- 3/22/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Lee Daniels is moving into the spy genre, according to The Hollywood Reporter, as he’ll executive produce a series adaptation of the Sam Greenlee novel “The Spook Who Sat By Door” with “The First Purge” director Gerard McMurray handling the show’s pilot. Leigh Dana Jackson will be the series showrunner, writer, and executive producer on the CIA project. Jackson previously worked on “24: Legacy” and Apple TV+‘s ambitious sci-fi series “Foundation,” an adaptation of the beloved literary universe created by visionary author Isaac Asimov.
Read More: ‘Stealth’: Lee Daniels To Direct Superhero Film From The Creator Of ‘The Walking Dead’
Daniels is best known for “Precious,” “The Bulter,” the Fox series “Empire,” and his upcoming directorial effort “The United States vs.
Continue reading ‘The Spook Who Sat By The Door’: Lee Daniels Producing Spy Drama For FX With Gerard McMurray Directing The Pilot at The Playlist.
Read More: ‘Stealth’: Lee Daniels To Direct Superhero Film From The Creator Of ‘The Walking Dead’
Daniels is best known for “Precious,” “The Bulter,” the Fox series “Empire,” and his upcoming directorial effort “The United States vs.
Continue reading ‘The Spook Who Sat By The Door’: Lee Daniels Producing Spy Drama For FX With Gerard McMurray Directing The Pilot at The Playlist.
- 2/9/2021
- by Christopher Marc
- The Playlist
FX has ordered a pilot for a series adaptation of Sam Greenlee’s spy novel “The Spook Who Sat by the Door,” Variety has learned.
The adaptation of the book will be written by Leigh Dana Jackson, who will also serve as executive producer and showrunner. Lee Daniels and Marc Velez will also executive produce on behalf of Lee Daniels Entertainment. The book was originally optioned through the Daniels’ Inclusion Fund. Gerard McMurray will direct the pilot in addition to executive producing. 20th Television will produce.
“’The Spook Who Sat By the Door’ was my dad’s favorite book,” said Daniels. “He’d be so proud that I’m doing this and even prouder that I’m doing this with Gerard and Dana—two bold and brilliant Black storytellers.”
“The Spook Who Sat By The Door” was previously adapted into a film in 1973 with Lawrence Cook in the lead role.
The adaptation of the book will be written by Leigh Dana Jackson, who will also serve as executive producer and showrunner. Lee Daniels and Marc Velez will also executive produce on behalf of Lee Daniels Entertainment. The book was originally optioned through the Daniels’ Inclusion Fund. Gerard McMurray will direct the pilot in addition to executive producing. 20th Television will produce.
“’The Spook Who Sat By the Door’ was my dad’s favorite book,” said Daniels. “He’d be so proud that I’m doing this and even prouder that I’m doing this with Gerard and Dana—two bold and brilliant Black storytellers.”
“The Spook Who Sat By The Door” was previously adapted into a film in 1973 with Lawrence Cook in the lead role.
- 2/8/2021
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
FX has picked up a pilot for a series adaptation of Sam Greenlee’s “The Spook Who Sat by the Door,” the cable network announced Monday. Lee Daniels will executive produce the series.
The 1969 novel tells the fictional story of the first Black CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s. Greenlee’s book, considered a major work of the Black nationalist movement during the civil rights era, was previously adapted for the screen in 1973, with Lawrence Cook starring as the novel’s protagonist, Dan Freeman.
Per FX, “The story chronicles the quest of Freeman, who was recruited as part of an affirmative-action program. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is rewarded with a post in the reprographics (aka photocopying) department, ‘left by the door’ as a token of the CIA’s ‘racial equality.
The 1969 novel tells the fictional story of the first Black CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s. Greenlee’s book, considered a major work of the Black nationalist movement during the civil rights era, was previously adapted for the screen in 1973, with Lawrence Cook starring as the novel’s protagonist, Dan Freeman.
Per FX, “The story chronicles the quest of Freeman, who was recruited as part of an affirmative-action program. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is rewarded with a post in the reprographics (aka photocopying) department, ‘left by the door’ as a token of the CIA’s ‘racial equality.
- 2/8/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
FX is moving forward with its adaptation of The Spook Who Sat By the Door – ordering a pilot for the project.
The project, which is exec produced by Lee Daniels, was written by Foundation and Raising Dion co-exec producer Leigh Dana Jackson and will be directed by The Twilight Zone and The First Purge director Gerard McMurray.
Produced by 20th Television and optioned through Lee Daniels’ Inclusion Fund, it comes almost 18 months after Deadline revealed the project was in development.
Based on Sam Greenlee’s spy novel, the series will look at the fictional story of Dan Freeman, the first African American CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s.
The story chronicles the quest of Freeman, who was recruited as part of an affirmative-action program. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is...
The project, which is exec produced by Lee Daniels, was written by Foundation and Raising Dion co-exec producer Leigh Dana Jackson and will be directed by The Twilight Zone and The First Purge director Gerard McMurray.
Produced by 20th Television and optioned through Lee Daniels’ Inclusion Fund, it comes almost 18 months after Deadline revealed the project was in development.
Based on Sam Greenlee’s spy novel, the series will look at the fictional story of Dan Freeman, the first African American CIA officer hired by the agency in the late 1960s.
The story chronicles the quest of Freeman, who was recruited as part of an affirmative-action program. After a very competitive selection process he trains in high-level combat and espionage. However, following this arduous training, this model recruit is...
- 2/8/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Lee Daniels is expanding his Disney footprint to FX.
The Empire co-creator is attached to executive produce The Spook Who Sat by the Door, a spy drama that has been ordered to pilot at the Disney-backed basic cable network.
Leigh Dana Jackson (Raising Dion, Foundation) penned the script and will serve as showrunner on the drama, which is based on the novel by Sam Greenlee. Gerard McMurray (Burning Sands) will exec produce and direct the pilot. Daniels will exec produce the potential series via his overall deal with Disney’s 20th Television. The book was optioned through Daniels’ inclusion fund....
The Empire co-creator is attached to executive produce The Spook Who Sat by the Door, a spy drama that has been ordered to pilot at the Disney-backed basic cable network.
Leigh Dana Jackson (Raising Dion, Foundation) penned the script and will serve as showrunner on the drama, which is based on the novel by Sam Greenlee. Gerard McMurray (Burning Sands) will exec produce and direct the pilot. Daniels will exec produce the potential series via his overall deal with Disney’s 20th Television. The book was optioned through Daniels’ inclusion fund....
Lee Daniels is expanding his Disney footprint to FX.
The Empire co-creator is attached to executive produce The Spook Who Sat by the Door, a spy drama that has been ordered to pilot at the Disney-backed basic cable network.
Leigh Dana Jackson (Raising Dion, Foundation) penned the script and will serve as showrunner on the drama, which is based on the novel by Sam Greenlee. Gerard McMurray (Burning Sands) will exec produce and direct the pilot. Daniels will exec produce the potential series via his overall deal with Disney’s 20th Television. The book was optioned through Daniels’ inclusion fund....
The Empire co-creator is attached to executive produce The Spook Who Sat by the Door, a spy drama that has been ordered to pilot at the Disney-backed basic cable network.
Leigh Dana Jackson (Raising Dion, Foundation) penned the script and will serve as showrunner on the drama, which is based on the novel by Sam Greenlee. Gerard McMurray (Burning Sands) will exec produce and direct the pilot. Daniels will exec produce the potential series via his overall deal with Disney’s 20th Television. The book was optioned through Daniels’ inclusion fund....
Exclusive: HBO Max is in the early development stage of a feature adaptation for the Trottle novella, which was co-written by Stephen King and his son Joe Hill, who is the Nyt bestselling author of The Fireman and Strange Weather. Leigh Dana Jackson, a co-executive producer on the Netflix series Raising Dion, will write the screenplay, which will be produced by David S. Goyer and Keith Levine through their Phantom Four label.
Throttle follows a father and son led biker gang who get terrorized by a big rig truck on an isolated stretch of the American desert. The short story was first published in 2009 in an anthology titled He Is Legend and was followed by a 2012 comic book adaptation from Idw Publishing.
Hill’s second novel, Horns, was made into a feature film starring Daniel Radcliffe, and his third one, NOS4A2, was adapted into a TV series on AMC with...
Throttle follows a father and son led biker gang who get terrorized by a big rig truck on an isolated stretch of the American desert. The short story was first published in 2009 in an anthology titled He Is Legend and was followed by a 2012 comic book adaptation from Idw Publishing.
Hill’s second novel, Horns, was made into a feature film starring Daniel Radcliffe, and his third one, NOS4A2, was adapted into a TV series on AMC with...
- 5/13/2020
- by Amanda N'Duka
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: The final season of Empire debuts tonight on Fox, but co-creator Lee Daniels is planning for the post-Lyons future with a new version of a seminal satire and thriller for FX.
Having optioned Sam Greenlee’s spy novel The Spook Who Sat By The Door in the summer of 2018 for a potential TV series, Lee Daniel’s production company has now named Leigh Dana Jackson to adopt the CIA tale for the small screen, I’ve learned. The 24: Legacy producer and Raising Dion co-ep will executive producer the intended series, as well as write it.
This new Tswsbtd is currently in development at the now Disney-owned John Landgraf-run cabler.
Having been born in 1969 as an acclaimed novel of the first African-American brought on board by the Agency and the tokenism and discrimination at the heart of that hire, the often scathing and provocative Tswsbtd was also made into a controversial 1973 film.
Having optioned Sam Greenlee’s spy novel The Spook Who Sat By The Door in the summer of 2018 for a potential TV series, Lee Daniel’s production company has now named Leigh Dana Jackson to adopt the CIA tale for the small screen, I’ve learned. The 24: Legacy producer and Raising Dion co-ep will executive producer the intended series, as well as write it.
This new Tswsbtd is currently in development at the now Disney-owned John Landgraf-run cabler.
Having been born in 1969 as an acclaimed novel of the first African-American brought on board by the Agency and the tokenism and discrimination at the heart of that hire, the often scathing and provocative Tswsbtd was also made into a controversial 1973 film.
- 9/24/2019
- by Dominic Patten
- Deadline Film + TV
Walk through any department store’s beauty department and you’ll be faced with a similar experience: luxurious Chanel, Dior, Ysl, Charlotte Tilbury, and M.A.C. makeup, pricey skincare products that you don’t know if you actually need, luxe candles that you hope someone will buy you for the holidays, and women offering up fancy fragrance samples. What you most likely won’t find? A brand whose label you don’t recognize.
Until now, that is, because Neiman Marcus is diversifying its beauty selection for a limited time. On the heels of the Indie Beauty Expo, the retailer...
Until now, that is, because Neiman Marcus is diversifying its beauty selection for a limited time. On the heels of the Indie Beauty Expo, the retailer...
- 10/20/2017
- by Jillian Ruffo
- PEOPLE.com
N.K. Jemisin’s Hugo Award-winning sci-fi fantasy novel The Fifth Season is getting the drama series treatment at TNT. The project is in early development at the cable network with Leigh Dana Jackson (24: Legacy, Sleepy Hollow) set to pen the adaptation and Imperative Entertainment’s (All the Money in the World) Dan Friedkin, Tim Kring and Justin Levy serving as executive producers. Jackson brought the novel, the first in a three-book series, to Imperative, which secured…...
- 8/16/2017
- Deadline TV
Slim Pickings on The CW December 11-12: New Synopses for The Tomorrow People and The Vampire Diaries
While The CW's surprise power couple "The Originals" and "Supernatural" take a break, new episodes of "The Tomorrow People" and "The Vampire Diaries" air the week of December 9th so here are the synopses for "Death's Door" and "Fifty Shades of Grayson," respectively.
"The Tomorrow People" Episode 1.09 - "Death's Door" (airs 12/11/13, 9-10pm)
Taking Risks — When John (Luke Mitchell) finds himself in a dangerous situation, Stephen (Robbie Amell) is unable to help without revealing himself to Ultra.
Not satisfied with the answer he has discovered about his father’s disappearance, Stephen decides to take drastic measures with the help of his fellow Tomorrow People to find out the truth.
Meanwhile, Cara (Peyton List) and Russell (Aaron Yoo) negotiate a trade with Jedikiah (Mark Pellegrino), which ultimately makes Jedikiah take a big risk.
Madeleine Mantock also stars. Leslie Libman directed the story by Greg Berlanti and Phil Klemmer and teleplay by...
"The Tomorrow People" Episode 1.09 - "Death's Door" (airs 12/11/13, 9-10pm)
Taking Risks — When John (Luke Mitchell) finds himself in a dangerous situation, Stephen (Robbie Amell) is unable to help without revealing himself to Ultra.
Not satisfied with the answer he has discovered about his father’s disappearance, Stephen decides to take drastic measures with the help of his fellow Tomorrow People to find out the truth.
Meanwhile, Cara (Peyton List) and Russell (Aaron Yoo) negotiate a trade with Jedikiah (Mark Pellegrino), which ultimately makes Jedikiah take a big risk.
Madeleine Mantock also stars. Leslie Libman directed the story by Greg Berlanti and Phil Klemmer and teleplay by...
- 11/22/2013
- by Debi Moore
- DreadCentral.com
The Tomorrow People, Season 1, Episode 5, “All Tomorrow’s Parties”
Written by Leigh Dana Jackson and Grainne Godfree
Directed by Nick Copus
Airs Wednesdays at 9pm Et on the CW
This week, on The Tomorrow People: The gang needs a night out, John needs a break, and Stephen needs a date to Homecoming
Last week’s (theoretically) John-centered episode may have been somewhat of a dud, but “All Tomorrow’s Parties” thankfully takes a step in the right direction by amping up the action and introducing new elements to the serialized plot. There are still several rather painful touches to this week’s episode (every mention of Homecoming immediately draws the audience out of the action- these characters look closer to 30 than high school. Pretending otherwise is ridiculous, and not in a good way), but on the whole, it’s progress, and that’s to be applauded.
Revealing larger threats behind Jedikiah,...
Written by Leigh Dana Jackson and Grainne Godfree
Directed by Nick Copus
Airs Wednesdays at 9pm Et on the CW
This week, on The Tomorrow People: The gang needs a night out, John needs a break, and Stephen needs a date to Homecoming
Last week’s (theoretically) John-centered episode may have been somewhat of a dud, but “All Tomorrow’s Parties” thankfully takes a step in the right direction by amping up the action and introducing new elements to the serialized plot. There are still several rather painful touches to this week’s episode (every mention of Homecoming immediately draws the audience out of the action- these characters look closer to 30 than high school. Pretending otherwise is ridiculous, and not in a good way), but on the whole, it’s progress, and that’s to be applauded.
Revealing larger threats behind Jedikiah,...
- 11/8/2013
- by Kate Kulzick
- SoundOnSight
Review Ron Hogan 8 Nov 2013 - 10:45
Has The Tomorrow People already peaked? Here's Ron's review of a disappointing fifth episode...
This review contains spoilers.
1.5 All Tomorrow's Parties
The Tomorrow People is a show that loves to start in the middle of the action and then back up and show us how we got to the cold opening point of the episode. As if realizing that, by this point, the show is getting a little monotonous, we get a cold opening of Stephen and his Ultra minder Darcy (Meta Golding), who we've seen before but never heard her name that I know of. Unsurprisingly, they're chasing a renegade Tomorrow Person. Also unsurprisingly, Stephen wants to ignore protocol, ignore the order of his superior officer, and ignore good sense by chasing after the dangerous fugitive. Here's where things get different; Stephen isn't chasing a real fugitive, it's just a training exercise (that...
Has The Tomorrow People already peaked? Here's Ron's review of a disappointing fifth episode...
This review contains spoilers.
1.5 All Tomorrow's Parties
The Tomorrow People is a show that loves to start in the middle of the action and then back up and show us how we got to the cold opening point of the episode. As if realizing that, by this point, the show is getting a little monotonous, we get a cold opening of Stephen and his Ultra minder Darcy (Meta Golding), who we've seen before but never heard her name that I know of. Unsurprisingly, they're chasing a renegade Tomorrow Person. Also unsurprisingly, Stephen wants to ignore protocol, ignore the order of his superior officer, and ignore good sense by chasing after the dangerous fugitive. Here's where things get different; Stephen isn't chasing a real fugitive, it's just a training exercise (that...
- 11/8/2013
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
If you're not watching "The Tomorrow People" on The CW, you're missing a ridiculously fun turn by Mark Pellegrino as Jedikiah, the evil head of Ultra. Check out this clip of Episode 1.05, "All Tomorrow's Parties," for an example.
"The Tomorrow People" Episode 1.05 - "All Tomorrow's Parties" (airs 11/6/13, 9-10pm)
After Stephen (Robbie Amell) breaks Ultra protocol during a training exercise, Jedikiah’s (Mark Pellegrino) mysterious boss insists on meeting Stephen. Stephen grows concerned when he learns Jedikiah is unable to protect him so he turns to John (Luke Mitchell), who is only interested for selfish reasons.
Elsewhere, the Tomorrow People are desperate to go topside to a party like normal people, but John and Cara (Peyton List) disagree on the dangerous plan. Meanwhile, Stephen makes a plan to go to Homecoming with Astrid (Madeleine Mantock), but when he bails on her once again, she decides to find out what he is really up to.
"The Tomorrow People" Episode 1.05 - "All Tomorrow's Parties" (airs 11/6/13, 9-10pm)
After Stephen (Robbie Amell) breaks Ultra protocol during a training exercise, Jedikiah’s (Mark Pellegrino) mysterious boss insists on meeting Stephen. Stephen grows concerned when he learns Jedikiah is unable to protect him so he turns to John (Luke Mitchell), who is only interested for selfish reasons.
Elsewhere, the Tomorrow People are desperate to go topside to a party like normal people, but John and Cara (Peyton List) disagree on the dangerous plan. Meanwhile, Stephen makes a plan to go to Homecoming with Astrid (Madeleine Mantock), but when he bails on her once again, she decides to find out what he is really up to.
- 11/4/2013
- by Debi Moore
- DreadCentral.com
Ready for a look ahead to next month and what's in store for fans of "The Originals," "Supernatural," "The Tomorrow People," and "The Vampire Diaries"? Then you've come to the right place!
"The Originals" Episode 1.06 - "Fruit of the Poisoned Tree" (airs 11/5/13, 8-9pm)
When Klaus (Joseph Morgan) discovers Hayley’s (Phoebe Tonkin) life is being threatened, he goes to extreme lengths to protect her and their unborn baby. Having a difficult time dealing with the tragic events of her past, Cami (Leah Pipes) turns to Father Kieran (guest star Todd Stashwick) for guidance.
Feeling as though he can trust no one, Marcel (Charles Michael Davis) visits an old friend to seek out some advice, while Davina (Danielle Campbell) takes steps to learn how to control her magic. Finally, Klaus delivers some surprising news to Father Kieran.
Daniel Gillies, Claire Holt, and Daniella Pineda also star. Michael Allowitz directed the...
"The Originals" Episode 1.06 - "Fruit of the Poisoned Tree" (airs 11/5/13, 8-9pm)
When Klaus (Joseph Morgan) discovers Hayley’s (Phoebe Tonkin) life is being threatened, he goes to extreme lengths to protect her and their unborn baby. Having a difficult time dealing with the tragic events of her past, Cami (Leah Pipes) turns to Father Kieran (guest star Todd Stashwick) for guidance.
Feeling as though he can trust no one, Marcel (Charles Michael Davis) visits an old friend to seek out some advice, while Davina (Danielle Campbell) takes steps to learn how to control her magic. Finally, Klaus delivers some surprising news to Father Kieran.
Daniel Gillies, Claire Holt, and Daniella Pineda also star. Michael Allowitz directed the...
- 10/17/2013
- by Debi Moore
- DreadCentral.com
666 Park Avenue Episode 107
“Downward Spiral”
Written By: Leigh Dana Jackson & Mimi Won Techentin
Directed by: J. Miller Tobin
Original Airdate: 11 November 2012
In This Episode...
Jane is still intent on going back home to Indiana. She even has Walter, the doorman, turn in her letter of resignation to Gavin. Henry clearly doesn’t want her to leave. Olivia and Gavin clearly don’t want her to leave, so they suggest that Henry propose to her. Olivia takes him ring shopping. While there, Shaw surprises her and asks Olivia to cut the ties with Gavin - he wants her to betray her husband. When she tells this to Gavin, he suggests she play along with him, mainly to keep tabs on him.
At her grandmother’s behest, Nona begs Jane not to leave the Drake. She is the only person she can trust - even after Jane wants to call social services...
“Downward Spiral”
Written By: Leigh Dana Jackson & Mimi Won Techentin
Directed by: J. Miller Tobin
Original Airdate: 11 November 2012
In This Episode...
Jane is still intent on going back home to Indiana. She even has Walter, the doorman, turn in her letter of resignation to Gavin. Henry clearly doesn’t want her to leave. Olivia and Gavin clearly don’t want her to leave, so they suggest that Henry propose to her. Olivia takes him ring shopping. While there, Shaw surprises her and asks Olivia to cut the ties with Gavin - he wants her to betray her husband. When she tells this to Gavin, he suggests she play along with him, mainly to keep tabs on him.
At her grandmother’s behest, Nona begs Jane not to leave the Drake. She is the only person she can trust - even after Jane wants to call social services...
- 11/12/2012
- by Alyse Wax
- FEARnet
NEW YORK -- The Tribeca Film Festival and sister nonprofit Tribeca Film Institute presented six filmmakers from underrepresented communities with the Tribeca All Access Creative Promise Awards Friday.
Pete Chatmon and co-writer Candice Sanchez McClaren took home the narrative award for their bank heist screenplay "$Free.99." Leigh Dana Jackson won in the emerging narrative section for his time travel-themed script "The Infinite Life of Stuart Hornsley."
Gemma Cubero and Celeste Carrasco won the docu section work-in-progress "She Wants to Be A Matador", and Anslem Richardson won the screenwriting prize for the car-crash drama "Bardos".
Richardson took home $8,500, while the other filmmakers received $12,000 in their categories.
The ceremony was held Friday night at Budakkan in Manhattan.
Pete Chatmon and co-writer Candice Sanchez McClaren took home the narrative award for their bank heist screenplay "$Free.99." Leigh Dana Jackson won in the emerging narrative section for his time travel-themed script "The Infinite Life of Stuart Hornsley."
Gemma Cubero and Celeste Carrasco won the docu section work-in-progress "She Wants to Be A Matador", and Anslem Richardson won the screenwriting prize for the car-crash drama "Bardos".
Richardson took home $8,500, while the other filmmakers received $12,000 in their categories.
The ceremony was held Friday night at Budakkan in Manhattan.
- 4/25/2008
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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