We already knew that the folks behind the hit BBC series “Sherlock” were setting their sights on the classic tale of Dracula for a new series, but now we know who will embody that iconic vampire.
According to Deadline, Netflix and BBC have found their headliner for the upcoming “Dracula” series in actor Claes Bang. The series, as you might presume, tells the story of Count Dracula, inspired by Bram Stoker’s classic novel, who makes plans against Victorian London. The begins with the titular character beginning his plans in late 19th century Transylvania.
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Most recently, film fans saw Bang star in the Claire Foy action thriller, “The Girl in the Spider’s Web.” However, he’s probably best known for his role in the 2017 Palme d’Or winner at Cannes, “The Square.” Bang’s role in the film earned him rave reviews. He’ll next be seen in the upcoming film, “The Burnt Orange Heresy.”
“I am thrilled to be taking on the role of Dracula, especially when the script is in the hands of the incredible talents of Steven Moffat, Mark Gatiss and the team responsible for ‘Sherlock,’” Bang said. “I’m so excited that I get to dig into this iconic and super-interesting character. Yes, he’s evil, but there’s also so much more to him, he’s charismatic, intelligent, witty and sexy. I realize that there’s a lot to live up to with all the amazing people that have played him over the years, but I feel so privileged, to be taking on this incredible character.”
As Bang mentions, this version of “Dracula” will greatly differ from previous iterations thanks to the sensibilities of Moffat, Gatiss, and company. The group that is spearheading “Dracula” are responsible for revitalizing Sherlock Holmes with Benedict Cumberbatch becoming a megastar thanks to his role as the titular detective. Now, they hope to replicate the same success with Bang and “Dracula.” And as with “Sherlock,” “Dracula” will be comprised of 90-minute episodes, with the first season having three total entries.
“It was one of those moments – who else could it be than Claes,” Gatiss, Moffat, and producer Sue Vertue said. “He has it all. Brilliant, gorgeous, charismatic, lethal. Tall, dark and gruesome all at once.”
Netflix and BBC have yet to announce a release date for “Dracula,” but filming is set to begin in 2019.