Black Sails’ Luke Roberts to Star in ‘Ransom’

Luke Roberts in Black Sails
Luke Roberts as Woodes Rogers in ‘Black Sails’ (Photo © 2016 Starz Entertainment, LLC)
Luke Roberts, Woodes Rogers on Starz’ Black Sails, is set to star in CBS and Entertainment One’s Ransom as just announced by Global and TF1. CBS recently signed on as the series’ broadcast partner, with filming expected to get underway soon in Canada and Europe. CBS is targeting a 2017 premiere of the dramatic series which will have a 13 episode season one. The X-FilesFrank Spotnitz is executive producing along with series creator David Vainola (Combat Hospital).

“We are delighted to partner with CBS, TF1 and Global to bring Ransom to screens around the globe,” said John Morayniss, Chief Executive Officer, eOne Television. “We are especially grateful to the Wildcats team, who brought the IP on which the show is inspired, Sienna Films with whom we have a longstanding and successful relationship, and Frank Spotnitz whose talent and vast experience will ensure delivery of a top notch show.”


“The world of crisis negotiation is incredibly compelling, as demonstrated by the fascinating real-life cases Laurent Combalbert has negotiated,” said Frank Spotnitz, Big Light Productions. “Laurent has inspired a brilliant and complex character, and you can’t help but be moved seeing all the lives he’s saved around the world.”

“As CBS continues to program year round, we are always looking for series that can fit seamlessly within our schedule and connect with our viewers,” said Glenn Geller, President, CBS Entertainment. “Ransom brings a compelling new approach to a character driven crime drama with a sense of urgency and closure in each episode.”

The Plot: Ransom follows crisis and hostage negotiator Eric Beaumont (Luke Roberts), whose team is brought in to save lives when no one else can. Eric understands criminals better than they do, and uses his insight into human behaviour to resolve the most difficult kidnap and ransom cases. Despite the stakes, Eric refuses to resort to violence, even when confronted by some of the most dangerous criminals in the world. While Eric’s considerable powers of manipulation make him the best at what he does professionally, they often complicate his relationships with family, friends and colleagues. Is Eric being himself, or who he needs to be in order to get what he wants? The difference is often hard to tell. The series begins with Eric taking on Maxine Carlson, a new member of the team eager to prove herself. But a dangerous secret from Maxine’s past may pose a threat that even the great Eric Beaumont is unable to resolve.