We all remember the news when FOX set two big X-Men based TV series to pilot. Well, one of them is getting its gears in motion…big time. ‘Legion’ (from Fargo creator Noah Hawley) has set Downton Abbey‘s Dan Stevens, Aubrey Plaza (Parks & Recreation), and Jean Smart (re-teaming with Hawley after S2 of Fargo) in three lead roles.
Dan Stevens will play the lead role of David Haller. Haller is a man who discovers he may be more than human after his years of struggling with mental illness and hearing voices may be real. In the comics, Haller is the son of Charles Xavier and Gabrielle Haller. This may be a different taken on him however, as he was “diagnosed as schizophrenic at a young age, David is a haunted man, trying to find his way back to sanity, but he’s getting tired and is about to give up when he meets the girl of his dreams.”
Aubrey Plaza will take the role of David’s friend, Lenny. Lenny has endured a life of drug & alcohol abuse. According to the casting announcement – who, despite a life of drugs and alcohol abuse, knows that any day now her life is going to turn around — which gives Lenny the likeable energy of the impossible optimist despite her rough demeanor.
Rounding out the announcement is Jean Smart, a woman who needs no introduction. She will play Melanie – “a nurturing, demanding therapist with a sharp mind and unconventional methods.”
Also, do not forget about the casting of Rachel Keller who will be the female lead, Syd.
This is a huge coup talent wise for FX and with each announcement, this writer cannot wait to see what Hawley has up his sleeve for Legion after the groundbreaking 2nd Season of Fargo.
Stay tuned to The Marvel Report for more news!