Actor David Oyelowo is set to play the lead role in Showtime’s adaptation of the novel The President Is Missing, portraying a man who becomes President.
The series which has gotten a pilot order will see Oyelowo act the part of a Vice President who unexpectedly becomes President halfway into his administration, despite not wanting the position.
The character description says he (Oyelowo’s character) finds himself in a secret, world-threatening crisis (both inside and outside the White House) and following attacks from his enemies and friends alike, he has to choose between toeing along to survive or taking a risky stubborn stand.
Gary Levine, Showtime’s President of entertainment, said of Oyelowo’s casting:
David brings such enormous depth, sensitivity, and power to every role he plays. Having him as our lead ensures that our series will have the exhilarating suspense of a political thriller along with juicy complexity of a character drama.Gary Levine – thewrap.com
The President Is Missing was written by Bill Clinton and James Patterson and has sold more than 2.3 million copies.