Paramount+ Orders Scottish Highland Saga 'Laird' Starring Kenneth Branagh
Paramount+ has officially commissioned "Laird," a compelling family drama destined to transport audiences to the majestic Scottish Highlands. This new series, featuring and executive produced by the acclaimed Kenneth Branagh, centers on a local estate owner, the Laird of Castle Drummoch, as he stands firm against the encroaching influence of an American billionaire. This tycoon harbors ambitions to acquire significant portions of the picturesque glens, setting the stage for a dramatic clash of wills and cultures.
The narrative of "Laird" delves into a deeply resonant theme: the struggle of an individual safeguarding their heritage and homeland from external financial power. Kenneth Branagh's portrayal of the Laird promises a nuanced performance, capturing the essence of a man fiercely devoted to his ancestral estate. His character embodies the spirit of resistance against unchecked wealth, aiming to protect the historical and cultural fabric of the Scottish Highlands from being commodified.
Behind the scenes, the series boasts an impressive creative team. "Laird" was conceived by Jez Butterworth, known for his work on "MobLand" and "The Agency," alongside his brother John-Henry Butterworth, co-creator of "The Agency" and screenwriter for "Edge of Tomorrow," and Georgia Lee, a producer on "The 100." This collaboration ensures a rich and engaging storytelling experience. The production is a joint effort between Paramount Television Studios and 101 Studios, bringing together substantial industry expertise.
Jane Wiseman, head of originals at Paramount+, emphasized the universal appeal of the show's core conflict, stating that "Laird" is fundamentally about one man's unwavering determination to defend his values against overwhelming wealth. She expressed confidence in Branagh's leadership and the creative team's ability to craft a story that will resonate with viewers.
The executive producer roster is equally strong, featuring Branagh himself, David Glasser, Jez and John-Henry Butterworth, Ron Burkle, David Hutkin, Bob Yari, Charles Finch, and Keith Cox. The pilot episode will be directed by Joe Wright, acclaimed for his work on films such as "Pride & Prejudice," "Atonement," and "Darkest Hour," further elevating the project's artistic caliber.
Matt Thunell, president of Paramount Television Studios, lauded the vision of the Butterworths and Lee, highlighting their creation of a gripping drama that explores the lengths a family will go to protect their land and legacy. He reiterated the studio's enthusiasm for collaborating with 101 Studios and bringing this unique series to Paramount+ with such a talented cast and crew.
"Laird" represents a significant addition to Paramount+'s rapidly expanding slate of original dramas, following other notable greenlights. The streaming service has recently commissioned "Discretion," a legal drama starring Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning; "Fear Not," a true-crime adaptation featuring Anne Hathaway; and "9/12," a drama about 9/11 first responders with Jeremy Strong. These projects underscore Paramount+'s commitment to delivering high-quality, diverse content to its audience.
This latest endeavor underscores Paramount+'s strategic focus on robust, character-driven narratives. With an acclaimed star, a seasoned creative team, and a compelling storyline rooted in the defense of heritage against modern pressures, "Laird" is poised to become a significant draw for the platform. It exemplifies the streamer's ambition to offer premium original programming that captivates and engages a broad audience, further solidifying its position in the competitive streaming landscape.
