Playing the title role of Dracula in the new Netflix/BBC One series is Claes Bang, and the first images have finally been released.
The production studio creating the new series, which is based on the classic work from Bram Stoker, is none other than Hartswood Films. If you’re a UK TV fan, you’ll know that Hartswood Films helped make Sherlock a hit, along with performances from Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange) and Martin Freeman (Lord of the Rings).
Netflix/BBC One
Although Bang isn’t as well known in the U.S., he has starred in TV series The Affair, as well as the film The Girl in the Spider’s Web. The new Dracula series, which is a period piece, will be written by Sherlock’s Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat and will feature directors Jonny Campbell (Westworld), Damon Thomas (Killing Eve, Penny Dreadful), Paul McGuigan (Sherlock), each helming a feature-length installment in the series.
Here’s how the producers describe the series: “Three feature-length episodes will re-introduce the world to Dracula, the vampire who made evil sexy. In Transylvania in 1897, the blood-drinking Count is drawing his plans against Victorian London. And be warned: the dead travel fast.”
“Yes he’s evil, but there’s also so much more to him, he’s charismatic, intelligent, witty and sexy.”
—Claes Bang
“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,” said Bang.
“I’m so excited that I get to dig in to 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.”
The series began shooting earlier this year at Orava Castle in Slovakia and will air on Netflix and BBC One.
Cover image via BBC One
