Benedict Cumberbatch starring as playboy Patrick Melrose in new TV drama 'Melrose'
Yep, you heard us. Benedict Cumberbatch as a playboy.
Calling all Cumberbatch fans... Benedict is returning to our screens with a brand new TV show!
Showtime cable network has announced that the Sherlock actor will star in TV show Melrose, a limited series of only five episodes. The series is based on the semi-autobiographical novels by Edward St. Aubyn, and will span from 1960s New York to early 2000 Britain.
Each episode will adapt a single novel, and will explore the troubled life of Patrick Melrose, played by Cumberbatch. As a child, Melrose grew up with abusive parents, but in adult life developed his reputation as an aristocratic playboy. However, he then descended into drug abuse and experienced a very gradual series of attempts toward recovery.
"We are delighted to be part of this incredible series," Benedict enthused in a statement with Exec Producer Adam Ackland.
"We have been huge fans of these books for many years, and David Nicholls' adaptations are extraordinary."
In an interview with NPR, author Aubyn commented on the novels, saying, "All of these books are about how to become free: how to become free of your conditioning; how to become free of resentment and hatred and the weight of the past. So Patrick is on the case. He may often by very unhappy or self-destructive or confused or say things that are sarcastic, but his whole direction is toward freedom, which he eventually achieves."
Screenwriter David added: "I've been a huge admirer of Edward St Aubyn's novels for years, and can't wait to bring these dark, witty, brilliant books to the screen. Benedict is the perfect Patrick Melrose."
The show's air date is yet to be announced.
We can't wait!