It appears that “Deadwood’s” Ian McShane is returning to
television as star of NBC’s U.S.
drama pilot “Kings,” the Hollywood Reporter claims. NBC is planning to announce
series pickups for “Kings,” a remake of “Knight Rider,” “The Philanthropist”
and the Christian Slater drama “My Worst Enemy.” Michael Green, from “Heroes,”
has written the pilot for “Kings” and he is the executive producer.
According to sources, “Kings” is based on King David's story.
Australian actor Christopher Egan will play David, a young warrior who joins
the court of the authoritative yet charming King Silas, interpreted by McShane.
Ian McShane won a Golden Globe for his role as Al Swearengen,
a character from “Deadwood” and he previously appeared on network TV, as in
CBS’s “Dallas” and NBC’s “Bare Essence.” For the moment, he stars in the
revival of “The Homecoming” on Broadway and voices one of the leads in “Kung Fu
Panda.”
Meanwhile, “My Worst Enemy” appears to focus on Slater’s
character, a suburban dad who finds out that his alter ego is actually a spy
and “The Philanthropist” goes around a rebel billionaire who aids those in
need.
“Kings,” “My Worst Enemy,” and “Philanthropist” would join renewed
series “Life,” “Chuck,” “Heroes,” “Celebrity Apprentice,” “Rider,” “The Biggest
Loser” and “American Gladiators.” Due to return are also “Law and Order,” “The
Office,” “My Name is Earl,” “30 Rock” and “ER.”
NBC approached advertisers about doing more “green weeks,”
with a modest version planned for this month in order to coincide with Earth
Day.