Jeff Bridges to star in The Old Man drama series for FX

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

It would seem that after starring in BAD TIME AT THE EL ROYALE for director Drew Goddard, legendary actor Jeff Bridges decided to take a a brief sabbatical from gracing the silver screen with his charm, gravitas, and whiskey-warm vocals. As one of my favorite actors of all time, I must admit that I've missed THE BIG LEBOWSKI actor's almost hypnotic screen presence, though I hear the time has come for him to make a triumphant return.

According to Variety, Bridges is set to star in THE OLD MAN, an upcoming drama series destined for FX.

The story is based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Thomas Perry, and tells the tale of Dan Chase (Bridges), who absconded from the CIA decades ago and has been living off the grid since. When an assassin arrives and tries to take Chase out, the old operative learns that to ensure his future he now must reconcile his past.

Adapting the novel for the small screen are Jon Steinberg and Robert Levine, who will also serve as executive producers on the series. Warren Littlefield will also executive producing alongside Bridges, Dan Shotz, and David Schiff. Production on the series is expected to kick off this fall, with Fox 21 Television Studios producing in association with The Littlefield Company.

“Jeff Bridges is an iconic, extraordinary actor and to have him as the star of this series is an incredible moment for FX,” said Nick Grad, co-president of original programming for FX Entertainment. “Jon Steinberg and Robert Levine have delivered an amazing pilot script and Jeff is perfect for the role of Dan Chase. We’re also happy to be working with Warren Littlefield, with whom we’ve had such a terrific partnership on Fargo, along with our partners at Fox 21.”

The role of Dan Chase will serve as THE FISHER KING alum's first starring television role.

In recent times, Bridges' name has been mentioned when speaking about a sequel to Matthew Vaughn's KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE, in which the actor co-starred as Champ, head honcho of the Statesman branch of spy services. It's been suspected that Vaughn will not direct the threequel, but rather that STAN & OLLIE helmer Jon S. Baird could be the one to usher Harry Hart and Eggsy's final mission onto the big screen.

I for one abide by the idea of Bridges coming to TV, as I'll take the man any way that I can get him.