NGT Preps Scripted Feature

WASHINGTON, D.C.: National Geographic Television’s (NGT) first scripted drama, Darwin’s Darkest Hour, will air in the U.S. on the PBS signature series NOVA on October 6. 

Principal photography on the two-part drama has wrapped in Canada. Darwin’s Darkest Hour stars Henry Ian Cusick (Lost) and Frances O’Connor (Mansfield Park, The Importance of Being Earnest). Its release will coincide with the 200th anniversary of Darwin’s birth and the 150th anniversary of his seminal work On the Origin of the Species. The film will be distributed internationally by Cinema Management Group.

"We felt it was important to cast actors who will connect deeply with the roles of Charles and Emma, since we plan to shine a new light on the enigmatic Charles Darwin, showing his vulnerabilities while also making his great insights understandable," said Michael Rosenfeld, the president of NGT. "With Cusick, we have found the perfect blend of star power and personal intensity to portray a man who sparked a scientific revolution. O’Connor’s natural warmth and on-screen radiance make her ideal for the role of Emma."

"NOVA is pleased to work with National Geographic and share the story of one the most important scientific figures in history with PBS audiences nationwide," said Paula S. Apsell, the senior executive producer of NOVA and director of the WGBH-Boston Science Unit. "Darwin’s Darkest Hour will bring to life the compelling human story behind the groundbreaking science—revealing Darwin’s personal struggles that he went through to ultimately launch his brilliant theory."