The steady construction of a wider DC universe onscreen is continuing apace. In addition to the Batman origin TV drama, Gotham, on FOX, rival network NBC are steaming ahead with the pilot for their Constantine TV show, adding Lucy Griffiths (True Blood) and Harold Perrineau (Lost) to its cast.
The show follows the exploits of John Constantine (Matt Ryan from Criminal Minds), a con-man reluctantly forced into the role of supernatural detective and charged with the task of defending humanity against the forces of darkness. Lucy Griffiths will play Liv, who is the daughter of a late friend of Constantine. Discovering that she has the ability to see the supernatural world around her, she is targeted by demons as a key player in the ongoing battle between good and evil.
Harold Perrineau will play Manny – an angel who has the ability to ‘step into’ the bodies of humans, and guide their actions. Though he is charged with observing and watching over Constantine, the temptation to assist is often too great for him when there are lives at stake. Also joining the cast is Charles Halford (True Detective), who will take the role of Chas – loyal companion and assistant to Constantine.
The character of John Constantine first appeared in the DC comic ‘Swamp Thing’ in 1985, before headlining the ‘Hellblazer’ comic series from 1988 onwards. In 2005, director Francis Lawrence delivered a feature film adaptation – Constantine – starring Keanu Reeves, Rachel Weisz, Shia LaBeouf, Djimon Hounsou and Tilda Swinton. Despite a mixed critical reception, it went on to make double its budget at the box office.
Written by Daniel Cerone (The Mentalist), from a story he developed with executive producer David S. Goyer, the pilot episode of this new Constantine TV show will be directed by Neil Marshall (Dog Soldiers, The Descent, Game Of Thrones). A broadcast date has yet to be announced, but we’ll keep you posted when we hear more.
