Based on the best-selling novel trilogy written by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan, production on the pilot just finished and clearly FX was pleased. In addition to del Toro and Hogan, Carlton Cuse will be writing and executive producing the series.
Eric Schrier and Nick Grad, the Presidents of Original Programming for FX Networks and FX Productions stated, “We could not be more excited to be moving forward with Guillermo, Carlton and Chuck on “The Strain.” This is an epic story with stunning visuals and remarkable acting. “The Strain” totally reimagines and reinvents the genre.”
Starring Corey Stoll, Mia Maestro, Sean Astin, Kevin Durand, Natalie Brown, Jonathan Hyde, Richard Sammel, Robert Maillet, Jack Kesy, Ben Hyland, and Miguel Gomez, the series begins production in Toronto later this month with the show to premiere in July of 2014. An interesting development, the producers and FX Productions are recasting the role of “Professor Abraham Setrakian,” which was previously held by John Hurt. Could this be a result of Hurt’s involvement in “Doctor Who?”
The press release gives more details about the the plot:
"The Strain" is a high concept thriller that tells the story of Dr. Ephraim Goodweather (Corey Stoll), the head of the Center for Disease Control Canary Team in New York City. He and his team are called upon to investigate a mysterious viral outbreak with hallmarks of an ancient and evil strain of vampirism. As the strain spreads, Eph, his team, and an assembly of everyday New Yorkers, wage war for the fate of humanity itself.
According to del Toro, “The Strain books are near and dear to my heart and now, Chuck and I have the blessing of a partnership with Carlton and FX that holds great promise. Working with FX has yielded an amazing experience with total creative freedom and support.”
We’ll keep you posted on any more developments.
-Larissa Mrykalo