Revolution at J.J. Abrams’ ‘Revolution': Billy Burke Promoted to Lead

Sometimes it takes years of putting your knows to the grindstone before becoming the lead of a major TV series.  Some find themselves lucky enough that the studios are willing to take chances.  And yet sometimes, it's as easy as "What about this guy?  He's already here, so why not?"

We previously reported the news from Deadline TV that 'Twilight' star Billy Burke had landed a supporting role in J.J. Abrams forthcoming post-apocalypse pilot 'Revolution,' but now the same outlet reports that the cast has undergone something of a shift.  Where previously Burke had been cast in the supporting role of a charismatic Marine named Bass, he'll now play the previously uncast lead role of Miles, a "an amazingly resourceful man with dark and dangerous side."  ‘Revolution’ isn’t Billy Burke’s first foray into TV either, having previously taken guest roles in ‘The Closer’, ’24′, and ‘Rizzoli & Isles’.

The pilot entered production last week without having cast the role of Miles, and the studio bosses decided to bump up Burke's deal, now needing the role of Bass will need to be recast.   Headlined by J.J. Abrams and 'Supernatural' creator Eric Kripke,  NBC’s ‘Revolution’ tells a post-apocalyptic tale of survival and the struggle to reunite with loved ones in a world where all forms of energy mysteriously vanish.  In addition to Kripke and Abrams backing the series, notable director, writer and actor Jon Favreau will take on directing duties for the pilot episode.

Still cast in the pilot is 'Breaking Bad' star Giancarlo Esposito as Capt. Neville, “a hard-as-steel military man with a genteel southern manner who may not always be what he seems.”

So, does the shaky footing of 'Revolution' have you nervous about this highly-anticipated new series, or is Billy Burke the perfect leading man?  What are your first thoughts about the pilot?