George R. Stewart’s acclaimed sci-fi novel Earth Abides is being adapted into a limited series at MGM+, with the streamer confirming seven actors have joined the series. Aaron Tveit, Rodrigo Fernandez-Stoll, Elyse Levesque, Luisa D’Oliveira, Birkett Turton, Hilary McCormack, and Jenna Berman have boarded the drama which is targeting a late 2024 premiere.
They join previously announced stars Alexander Ludwig (Heels, Vikings) and Jessica Frances Dukes (Ozark).
“In Earth Abides, when a plague of unprecedented virulence sweeps the globe, the human race is all but wiped out,” reads MGM+’s synopsis. “In the aftermath, as the great machine of civilization slowly and inexorably breaks down, only a few shattered survivors remain to struggle against the slide into extinction.”
MGM+ released these descriptions of the new characters:
– Aaron Tveit (Schmigadoon!) will play Charlie, the handsome leader of a new group of travelers. A natural charmer, he hides a threatening nature that only Ish (Alexander Ludwig) seems to be able to see.
– Rodrigo Fernandez-Stoll (Priscilla) will play Jorge. A civil engineer in his native Venezuela, Jorge finds his purpose once more amongst the San Lupo community.
– Elyse Levesque (Orphan Black) will play Maurine, who is beautiful but troubled. Used to a life of wealth and sophistication, past traumas have left her despondent.
– Luisa D’Oliveira (The 100) will play Molly, a doctor with a deep-rooted strength and directness. Molly is a supportive and dependable force within the community, helping many through their struggles while hiding her own.
– Birkett Turton (iZombie) will play Ezra, a former music club owner who is full of personality. Everything about him sets Ish on edge.
– Hilary McCormack (Killjoys) will play Jean, once a mesmerizing musician and singer who is now a loving mother and recovering addict.
– Jenna Berman (Chilling Adventures of Sabrina) will play Evie, a young autistic woman with radiant beauty who finds peace in art.
Todd Komarnicki (Sully) writes, executive produces, and serves as showrunner. Kearie Peak and Lighthouse Productions’ Michael Phillips and Juliana Maio also executive produce. Karen Janszen, Tony Spiridakis, Evan Hart, and Kyle Stephen join Komarnicki as writers, with Bronwen Hughes directing the pilot and episode two. Rachel Leiterman directs episodes three and four, and Stephen Campanelli is at the helm of episodes five and six.
