Apple TV+ Greenlights Historical Drama Starring Michael Douglas

Apple TV+ has ordered a new limited series about Benjamin Franklin, with Michael Douglas set to star in the lead role.

Based on A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America by Stacy Schiff, the series will be written and executive produced by Kirk Ellis (John Adams) and directed by Tim Van Patten. It will explore how Franklin, at age 70, convinced France to underwrite America’s experiment in democracy.

The untitled series will be co-produced by ITV Studios America and Apple Studios. Ellis, Van Patten and Douglas will executive produce alongside Richard Plepler through EDEN productions, Tony Krantz through Flame Ventures and Mark Mostyn. Stacy Schiff will serve as co-executive producer.