David Tennant will star in ‘Around The World In 80 Days’ on the BBC.
The broadcaster has confirmed it has acquired the rights to the upcoming drama – adapted from Jules Verne’s classic novel – which will see the AGE-year-old actor play explorer Phileas Fogg.
The exciting series – which will start filming in February 2020 – will run for eight hour-long episodes with ‘Life On Mars’ writer Ashley Pharoah and ‘Heartless’ scribe Caleb Ranson penning the script
Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, said: "This is such an exciting project.
"There is an amazing team both in front and behind the camera and we cannot wait to see their ambitious interpretation of this classic novel for a new generation."
In the novel, Fogg and his valet Passepartout – played by French star Ibrahim Koma – take on the legendary challenge of navigating the globe in just 80 days.
The journey sees them joined by aspiring journalist Abigail Fix, who will be portrayed by ‘The Crown’ star Leonie Benesch.
Executive producer Simon Crawford Collins added: "We are thrilled to have such a talent as David to play this modern take on the iconic role of Phileas Fogg.
"The series is full of adrenaline, heart and of course lots of fun, thanks to Ashley and our talented writing team. Viewers are in for something really special!"
Steve Barron – who has worked on the likes of ‘The Durrels’ and ‘Treasure Island’ – has been confirmed as lead director, while ‘Supernatural’ chief Charles Beeson will also be at the helm for an unspecified number of episodes.
Verne’s 1862 adventure novel has been adapted a number of times in the past, including a big screen Disney live actin version in 2004 which saw Steve Coogan as Fogg alongside Jackie Chan as Passepartout.
David Tennant starring in BBC’s Around The World in 80 Days
