After the end of the critically-acclaimed, cult-favorite series “Orphan Black,” many wondered how long it would take for actress Tatiana Maslany to take over Hollywood. Appearing as multiple characters (a lot of the time in the same scene) in the sci-fi series, the star made people take notice of just how great of a talent she is. And now, it appears that HBO has taken notice and snatched her up in a lead role in the upcoming “Perry Mason” series.
According to Deadline, Maslany has landed the role of Sister Alice in the upcoming limited series based on the popular film and TV franchise, “Perry Mason.” The series takes place in 1932 Los Angeles and follows a younger Mason (played by Matthew Rhys) who finds himself embroiled in a case involving a child kidnapping gone very, very wrong. Well before he would go on to become a celebrated criminal defense lawyer (as fans know him best), Mason must seek out the truth in his latest case and find redemption, in the process.
Maslany is set to play Sister Alice, who is a well-known leader of the Radiant Assembly of God, and puts on sermons three times a day, seven days a week. Her power has begun to grow in Los Angeles and there may be something more afoot with the religious celebrity.
Other than her starring role(s) in “Orphan Black,” Maslany is probably best known for her most recent work in films like “Destroyer,” “Stronger,” and the just-premiered “Pink Wall.”
“Perry Mason” was originally conceived as a star vehicle for Robert Downey, Jr, however, the actor had to back away (but is still producer) and make way for actor Rhys to take over the role. No word on when the series is expected to premiere on HBO, but with casting underway, it’s a strong assumption that we could see the origins of Perry Mason in 2020.