LEGION Finds Its Lead
According to reports, FX has chosen Downton Abbey alumnus Dan Stevens for the lead role in Legion. He’ll play David Haller.
Diagnosed with schizophrenia, David has been in and out of mental facilities, and a chance encounter with a fellow patient leaves him wondering if the voices in his head and the vision he has are actually real.
Spoiler: in the comics, Haller is the son of Professor Charles Xavier, leader of the X-Men, and Gabrielle Haller. Xavier possesses the ability to read minds.
Aubrey Plaza and Jean Smart have also been added to the cast. Plaza will play David’s friend Lenny, a fellow patient who is convinced her life will turn around at any moment. Smart will play a therapist named Melanie, described as “a nurturing, demanding therapist with a sharp mind and unconventional methods.” They join the previously announced Rachel Keller.
Back in January, FX Networks CEO John Landgraf spoke with reporters at the Television Critics Association’s press tour, and he said there was a strong potential for the show to be picked up for a full series order. A writers room has been assembled, and sets were under construction.
Legion is set to begin shooting in March.
