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Apple TV+ has announced a new limited series based on the book “A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America” and starring Michael Douglas.
The series, which is from writer Kirk Ellis and director Tim Van Patten, will star Douglas as Benjamin Franklin. The book that the series is based is was penned by Pulitzer Prize winner Stacy Schiff.
According to Apple, the drama series — a co-production in partnership with ITV Studios America — will “explore the thrilling story of one of the greatest gambles of Benjamin Franklin’s career.”
“At age 70, without any diplomatic training, Franklin convinced France – an absolute monarchy – to underwrite America’s experiment in democracy. By virtue of his fame, charisma and ingenuity, Franklin outmaneuvered British spies, French informers and hostile colleagues, all while engineering the Franco-American alliance of 1778 and the final peace treaty with England of l783,” Apple wrote. “The eight-year French mission stands as Franklin’s most vital service to his country, without which America would not have won the Revolution.”
The limited event series will be written and executive produced by Ellis and directed by Van Patten, who will also serve as executive producer alongside Douglas, Richard Plepler, Tony Krantz, Mark Mostyn. Schiff, who wrote the book the series is based on, will co-executive produce.
