Guillermo del Toro’s ‘The Strain': FX Taps ‘House of Cards’ Corey Stoll as Lead
Just yesterday we were wondering what had become of FX's Guillermo del Toro-helmed pilot 'The Strain,' after HBO announced their own del Toro project 'Monster,' and now we have our answer. 'House of Cards' breakout Corey Stoll has been tapped as the lead in the project, but will the vampire series move forward beyond its pilot order? Hear what FX has to say about a live-action 'The Strain' inside!
At long last, FX and Guillermo del Toro have begun moving forward with their adaptation of del Toro's novel trilogy 'The Strain.' Via FX, we've learned that Netflix's 'House of Cards' star Corey Stoll will headline the project, which has a pilot commitment but has reportedly already been considered for a series order.
For those unfamiliar with the 2009 trilogy, ‘The Strain’ follow Dr. Ephraim “Eph” Goodweather (Stoll), a CDC operative who investigates a mysterious viral outbreak with hallmarks of an ancient and evil strain of vampirism. As the strain spreads, Eph, his team, and an assembly of everyday New Yorkers, wage war for the fate of humanity itself.
‘The Strain’ was followed by two sequel novels ‘The Fall’ and ‘The Night Eternal.’ Former ‘LOST’ and current ‘Bates Motel‘ show-runner Carlton Cuse will also helm FX's adaptation, from a screenplay by del Toro and novel co-writer Michael Hogan. Hogan and Gary Ungar will also serve as Executive Producers
"To me, having the right lead for The Strain series was perhaps the most important creative task,” said del Toro. “To be able to secure the perfect actor in Corey Stoll sets the project on the right track. To embody a character like Ephraim Goodweather – who transitions through every emotion and situation imaginable, and which anchors the narrative of the series – requires amazing talent and craft. Corey has both in spades as he has demonstrated it over and over again."
Well, what say you? Are you excited to see a live-action adaptation of 'The Strain,' with Stoll in the lead? Who else should join as the pilot moves forward? Tell us what you want to see from 'The Strain' in the pilot!