Deadline is reporting that Designated Survivor star Natascha McElhone has joined Sean Penn in The First, the upcoming straight-to-series sci-fi drama from House of Cards creator Beau Willimon.
“What I so admire about Natascha’s work is the fearlessness and honesty she brings to every role,” said Willimon. “She’s a wonderfully talented adventurer of the spirit, and I’m thrilled to be embarking on this journey with her.”
“I am so excited to work with original, maverick artists like Beau Willimon and Sean Penn — it’s a real privilege to be invited,” added McElhone. “As well as exploring Mars; I am thrilled to be accommodated by the brilliant planet Hulu and my favorite homegrown one of Channel 4.”
The First details the first human mission to Mars and explores the challenges of taking the first steps toward interplanetary colonization from the viewpoint of the astronauts, their families and loved ones, and the ground team on earth.
Production on The First is slated to get underway later this year.
Originally published October 1, 2017. Updated April 18, 2018.
