It's been almost a year and a half since we heard that Sherlock writers/producers Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat were developing a mini-series inspired by the classic Bram Stoker novel Dracula. That project, which will air on the BBC and be available for viewing through the Netflix streaming service, is now moving forward – and the title role has been cast.
Danish actor Claes Bang has signed on to play Count Dracula in the series, which is meant to
re-introduce the world to the vampire who made evil sexy. In Transylvania in 1897, the blood drinking Count is drawing his plans against Victorian London.
Bang can currently be seen on the big screen as Jan Holtser in THE GIRL IN THE SPIDER'S WEB… a film which I have not seen. I actually haven't seen any of the 40+ films and television shows Bang has appeared in during his twenty years of screen acting, so I can't really comment on his casting aside from saying that he has a good look for Dracula.
Bang had this to say about his own casting:
I am thrilled to be taking on the role of Dracula, especially when the script is in the hands of the incredible talents of Steven Moffat, Mark Gatiss and the team responsible for Sherlock. I’m so excited that I get to dig in to this iconic and super-interesting character. Yes he’s evil, but there’s also so much more to him, he’s charismatic, intelligent, witty and sexy. I realise that there’s a lot to live up to with all the amazing people that have played him over the years, but I feel so privileged to be taking on this incredible character.”
Produced by Hartswood Films, the mini-series will consist of three 90 minute episodes.