Stay in the loop on industry and casting news with our write-up on who’s been slated for recent film and television roles!
Please note that shoot dates are subject to state and county restrictions and may change. Refer to Call Sheet for updates, and keep checking Backstage for the latest news on project development during this time.
“Harold and the Purple Crayon”
A beloved childhood story is heading to the big screen. The 1955 children’s book “Harold and the Purple Crayon,” written and illustrated by Crockett Johnson, has appealed to generations of children. It’s the story of Harold, a 4-year-old boy who goes on an epic adventure through his imagination with the help of a magical crayon. The film will closely follow the original plot. It’s already begun casting with Betty Mae, who has signed Zachary Levi as the first actor on the project. Production is scheduled to begin in November in Atlanta.
“American Gigolo”
The 1980 Richard Gere film “American Gigolo” is getting the remake treatment. It’s headed to Showtime as an hourlong drama, and it has already received a series order. The racy show will follow Julian Kaye, who’s been released from prison after serving 15 years for murder. Suspecting he was part of a setup, he goes in search of the truth while trying to acclimate to life in modern Los Angeles. He looks for his long-lost love while struggling to return to his successful career in the sex industry. Automatic Sweat Casting has already locked in Jon Bernthal to star in the series, written by David Hollander and Neil LaBute and executive produced by Jerry Bruckheimer. Joining Bernthal are Gabriel LaBelle, Lizzie Brocheré, Gretchen Mol, and Leland Orser. Production on the series is scheduled to begin in early 2022 in Los Angeles.
“Grand Crew”
Phil Augusta Jackson and Dan Goor of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” are re-teaming on another ensemble comedy. The duo will assemble the ultimate friend group in their new NBC series “Grand Crew.” The project will follow young Black professionals living in Los Angeles who are trying to find their footing while looking for love and success. Meeting regularly at a wine bar, the five friends confide in each other as they unwind from their hectic lives. Casting director Susie Farris has already lined up several actors for the series, including Nicole Byer, Aaron Jennings, Justin Cunningham, Carl Tart, and Echo Kellum. Production on the comedy series is scheduled to start in mid-August and film until October. The series will be filmed in L.A.
For the latest news, check out backstage.com/resources to find thousands of production listings, casting directors, acting classes, agents, and more!
This story originally appeared in the Aug. 5 issue of Backstage Magazine. Subscribe here.