Despite its original programming mandate, the network formerly known as The History Channel has found success with the scripted series, “Vikings” and the event miniseries “The Bible” and “Hatfields and McCoys.”
Earlier today, History announced its newest miniseries, “Houdini;” which will star Adrien Brody as Harry Houdini, the famous escape artist who was renowned for his stunts during the early 1900s. “Houdini” will be a four hour miniseries that “follows the man behind the magic as he finds fame, engages in espionage, battles spiritualists and encounters the greatest names of the era.”
“Since my childhood, when I dreamed of being a great magician, Harry Houdini has been one of my heroes,” said Brody in a statement. “His bravery and obsessive determination still fascinate me. Houdini mastered the art of escape – not only from physical chains, but from poverty and the social constraints of a humble immigrant origin. His life story appeals to the universal longing for acceptance with which we all can identify. To portray him is beyond an honor.”
Brody won the Best Actor Oscar for his leading role in The Pianist and he also starred in The Jacket, King Kong. Hollywoodland, The Darjeeling Limited, Splice, Predators and Midnight in Paris.
The “Houdini” miniseries is being written by Nicholas Meyer, the director of Star Trek II and Star Trek VI. Uli Edel is slated to direct “Houdini,” with Gerald W. Abrams and Andras Hamori executive producing.
“Houdini” will begin production this fall and it will likely debut in 2014 on History.
