Bertie Carvel and Eddie Marsan to Star in BBC's JONATHAN STRANGE & MR NORRELL

by BWW News Desk Oct. 10, 2013

Bertie Carvel and Eddie Marsan will co-star in BBC television's version of Susanna Clarke's novel JONATHAN STRANGE & MR NORRELL, according to the Daily Mail. The mini-series -- adapted by screenwriter Peter Harness -- will play seven one-hour episodes.

Read the original report here.

The Amazon blurb for the book reads: "At the dawn of the nineteenth century, two very different magicians emerge to change England's history. In the year 1806, with the Napoleonic Wars raging on land and sea, most people believe magic to be long dead in England--until the reclusive Mr Norrell reveals his powers, and becomes a celebrity overnight. Soon, another practicing magician comes forth: the young, handsome, and daring Jonathan Strange. He becomes Norrell's student, and they join forces in the war against France."

Marsan will star as Norrell, with Carvel as Strange, Norrell's student.

A cast read-through, directed by Toby Haynes, is set for October 23 before filming begins in Leeds, Montreal and Venice.

Carvel was nominated for a 2013 Tony Award for his portrayal of 'Miss Trunchbull' in MATILDA on Broadway -- a role he originated in the West End and which won him an Olivier Award. He has also graced the West End in PARADE and DAMNED BY DESPAIR, as well as stage productions of Revelations, Rose Bernd, Coram Boy, The Life of Galileo, The Man of Mode and more. Carvel's TV credits include Hidden, The Crimson Petal and the White, Sherlock, Doctor Who, Bombshell, Beethoven and more. He also appeared in 2012's LES MIS film adaptation.

Marsan will next be seen on the big screen in X Plus Y. Past film credits include Filth, Still Life, The World's End, Jack the Giant Slayer, Snow White and the Huntsman, I, Anna, War Horse, Hancock, The Illusionist, V for Vendetta and many more. His TV credits include Ray Donovan, Southcliffe, Criminal Justice, Little Dorrit and more.