Morgan Freeman has taken a significant step in his career by joining the cast of Lioness, a Paramount+ series created by Taylor Sheridan.
This marks Freeman’s first regular role in a television series, a notable shift for the acclaimed actor who has been selective about his television appearances throughout his extensive career.
In an interview with TV Insider, Freeman explained that his decision to join Lioness was largely influenced by his admiration for Sheridan’s work. “I’m so enamored of him and his work. He’s so prolific, and it’s always good,” Freeman stated.
He revealed that Sheridan personally offered him the role, which he found flattering, saying, “It’s almost as if he’s saying to me, ‘I wrote this for you.’”
Freeman portrays Edwin Mullins, the U.S. Secretary of State, a character that adds a new dimension to his repertoire of high-ranking government officials. While he has previously played roles such as the President and Chief Justice, Freeman noted that his preparation for this character remains consistent: “My preparation is the same as always: Read the script and know how you fit in.”
Freeman also expressed respect for the diplomatic challenges faced by his character. He described diplomats’ roles as crucial in resolving conflicts and emphasized the need for discretion in high-stakes situations. “Diplomats have one serious task: putting out political fires,” he explained. “In my situation as secretary of state relying on a bunch of killers, that’s political dynamite.”
As Lioness continues into its second season, Freeman’s involvement is expected to deepen the exploration of moral complexities within the show’s narrative. The series follows a fictional CIA program that trains female operatives to infiltrate terrorist organizations and features a strong ensemble cast, including Zoe Saldaña and Nicole Kidman.
With Freeman now a central figure in Lioness, fans can look forward to seeing how his character navigates the intricate dynamics of diplomacy and covert operations in this gripping drama.
Related topics:
