BritBox has unveil a captivating first glimpse of Jason Isaacs embodying Hollywood star Cary Grant in the upcoming four-part series, Archie.
This highly anticipated drama delves into the life of one of Tinseltown’s greatest luminaries.
Crafted by the notable screenwriter, Jeff Pope, and backed by Etta Pictures, Pope’s own ITV Studios label, BritBox International has teamed up as the co-production associate. The drama is poised to make its debut in December across various regions including North America, Australia, South Africa, and the Nordics.
Paul Andrew Williams, a BAFTA laureate, assumes the role of the director while also contributing as an Executive Producer. The series’ production is overseen by another BAFTA victor, Rebecca Hodgson.
The striking images reveal Jason Isaacs for the first-time channelling Cary Grant, looking suave, debonair and exuding all the elegance and style associated with one of the greatest Hollywood icons.
Originating from Bristol, England in 1904, Archie spins the tale of a young Archibald Alexander Leach. It sheds light on the tumultuous phases of his early life, marked by acute poverty, familial betrayals, and profound grief stemming from personal losses.
The storyline crafted by Jeff Pope sheds light on how a tangled web of deception and a pivotal lie moulded Archie’s destiny.
Embarking on his journey in the entertainment world, young Archie auditioned for the Bob Pender Troupe at the age of 14. This leap of faith set him on a path of self-discovery, ultimately leading him to America, a place he saw as a land brimming with prospects.
An unexpected encounter with comedian George Burns became the turning point in his career. It was this phase when the world came to know Archibald Alexander Leach as the iconic Cary Grant.
The narrative also toggles between the 1960s, a period when Cary Grant, despite enjoying an unparalleled career zenith, grappled with personal sorrows. Amidst this backdrop, Cary’s pursuit of Dyan Cannon, an actress 33 years his junior, forms a significant plot arc.
The star-studded cast features Laura Aikman as Dyan Cannon, Harriet Walter portraying Cary’s mother, Elsie Leach, and Dainton Anderson, Calam Lynch, and Oaklee Pendergast as younger renditions of Archie. Kara Tointon is set to depict a youthful Elsie.
With the endorsement of Cary Grant’s kin, Jennifer Grant and ex-spouse Dyan Cannon, both have stepped in as Executive Producers. The drama will air first in the UK on ITV in November and subsequently on BritBox in December for international viewers.
Doesn’t look any thing like him
Can’t wait to see it!!