Sean Bean has been cast in an antagonistic role in upcoming TV series Robin Hood, MGM+'s modern retelling of the classic British hero's adventures.
Hailed as an in-depth, psychological study of the legendary figure, Robin Hood stars Australian newcomer Jack Patten as the famed archer, while former Shardlake star Bean is set to play the Sheriff of Nottingham.
The series from Lionsgate TV and showrunner John Glenn will focus more on the relationship between Rob and Lady Marian (the daughter of a Norman lord) as they fall for one another and fight for justice and freedom together.
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Following the Norman invasion of England, both Rob and Marian will resort to their own specific skills to thwart royal corruption and secure peace. Rob becomes the leaders of a band of outlaws, while Marian infiltrates the royal court, fighting the enemy from the inside.
Bean's character in the period drama appears more complex than the villain painted in previous adaptations, like the Russell Crowe movie.
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A statesman, a strategist, and a builder of Nottingham, the Sheriff is also a family man. A father, a politician, and cousin to King Henry II, he doesn't just face the outlaws in the woods but also the ambitions of Eleanor of Aquitaine and the Norman Barons that surround him.
Described as cunning and pragmatic, he rules with an iron hand, though not out of cruelty, as a defended of the law as Normans see it.
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The 10-episode series, whose pilot is directed by Jonathan English, doesn't have a release date yet.
Previously weighing in on casting Patten as Robin, head of MGM+ Michael Wright said (via Deadline): "We are very excited to cast Jack Patten in his first television series leading role.
"We knew immediately when we saw him that he was our ideal Robin and uniquely able to bring to life this iconic character," Wright continued.
"Jack brings unique charisma and heart to this new iteration of the classic romantic adventure of a rogue outlaw who steals from the rich to care for the poor and finds his soul mate in the equally powerful Marian."
Reporter, Digital Spy
Stefania is a freelance writer specialising in TV and movies. After graduating from City University, London, she covered LGBTQ+ news and pursued a career in entertainment journalism, with her work appearing in outlets including Little White Lies, The Skinny, Radio Times and Digital Spy.
Her beats are horror films and period dramas, especially if fronted by queer women. She can argue why Scream is the best slasher in four languages (and a half).
