Jeff Daniels is no stranger to our big and small screens, but in his latest role, we’re likely to see him like never before.Making his debut in the world of political miniseries', Daniels is set to star as former FBI Director James Comey in the four-hour TV adaptation of Comey's bestselling book,
A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies and Leadership, taking viewers through the rise, and eventual fall, of the former FBI Director.Joining Daniels in the cast is Irish actor Brendan Gleeson as President Donald Trump, along with Michael Kelly and Tony-winning actress Jennifer Ehle.The miniseries, which is currently untitled, comes at a time when political discourse seems especially relevant, especially on the heels of Trump’s recent impeachment inquiry. In May of 2017, President Trump dismissed Comey from his role as FBI Director, quickly making news and inciting reactions from political figureheads in the United States and beyond. What went wrong in Comey’s relationship with Trump? What about his experience with past presidents? What really happens in the White House? If the book is any indication, these questions are just the tip of what they'll tackle in the miniseries, directed by Oscar-nominated
Captain Phillips screenwriter Billy Ray.“Jeff is so perfect for this part,”
said Billy Ray about casting Daniels in the role. “Great actor, instant integrity, loads of warmth, intelligence, complexity and gravitas.”While the portrayal of Comey might be new to TV audiences, there's been no shortage of famous actors who've tried their hand at playing Trump over the years. From Alec Baldwin on
Saturday Night Live to Jimmy Fallon's
Tonight Show impressions,
and even Meryl Streep, so many stars have stepped on stage to put their own spin on Trump’s signature look and unique mannerisms, and we can’t wait to see 'Mad-Eye Moody' himself Brendan Gleeson try his hand at — arguably — his most challenging role yet.With the political drama set to begin production in November of this year, we'll likely be hearing about this miniseries for a while -- right into the next award season. From S
candal and
Homeland, to the 2012 HBO film
Game Change, political themes have always been popular with critics and audiences alike, especially when it comes to nominations.While the airdate has yet to be announced, we're already looking forward to seeing Comey's story play out on the small screen.
