Lifetime is taking on an epic for its next adaptation. And it’s teaming with a powerhouse group of collaborators to do so.
The network is working with a variety of entities on a limited series based on Leo Tolstoy’s classic novel “War and Peace.”
The series, which is expected to premiere in 2016, will star Paul Dano, Lily James, Gillian Anderson, James Norton and Jim Broadbent.
Lifetime is partnering on the project with The Weinstein Company, BBC Cymru Wales and BBC Worldwide/Lookout Point. The series will be simulcast on Lifetime, A&E and History in the United States.
The novel, first published in its entirety in 1869, details events surrounding the French invasion of Russia and is known for its epic scope and length.
Earlier Thursday, it was announced that a new take on the classic “Roots” would air on History, A&E and Lifetime as an event series next year. Based on Alex Haley’s 1976 book, “Roots” will be co-executive produced by LeVar Burton, who starred in the 1977 ABC miniseries based on Haley’s book.
“Roots” will be executive produced by Will Packer (“Ride Along,” “Think Like a Man”) and Mark Wolper, whose Wolper Organization produced the ABC miniseries.