If you thought Epix's planned Batman prequel series PENNYWORTH was a left-field prospect before, just wait until you hear who they cast as a villainess for the offbeat comic adventure. Early this afternoon, the network announced that British pop star Paloma Faith has been tapped for the role of Bet Sykes, a cunning foe set to put a young Alfred Pennyworth (Jack Bannon) through his paces, as well as his boss, Thomas Wayne (Ben Aldridge).
Described as a “spirited, sadistic and sharp-tongued villain,” by Warner Horizon Scripted Television, Sykes is expected to teach a 20-something Pennyworth a lesson in the school of hard knocks, as he continues to hone his skills as a formidable SAS soldier.
In addition to being a Platinum-selling singer, Faith has performed as an actress in the family adventure drama PETER AND WENDY, director Anthony DiBlasi's DREAD, as well as countless concert-related showcases. Last November, Paloma Faith's fourth full-length album, The Architect, climbed its way to the top of the U.K. 40 chart, and held a position on that list for a total of 32 weeks. The new album features Faith performing alongside several notable artists, including Samuel L. Jackson, Owen Jones, John Legend, Janelle Martin and Naomi Miller.
PENNYWORTH, set in a 1960s London, is poised to deliver 10 episodes that chronicle the title character's journey from SAS agent to security team mastermind, and eventually, the Wayne's family butler. The show hails from executive producers Bruno Heller (GOTHAM, ROME) and Danny Cannon (GOTHAM).