Kenneth Branagh to Star in Jez Butterworth's New Paramount+ Series 'The Lair'

Paramount+ has greenlit a new drama series titled 'The Lair,' starring Kenneth Branagh, according to a report from Deadline. He will also serve as an executive producer on the project.

This marks the third series from writer Jez Butterworth and production company 101 Studios for the streamer, following 'MobLand' and 'The Agency.'

What is 'The Lair' about?

The series is set in the modern Scottish Highlands and is described as an epic family saga. Branagh will play the Laird of Castle Drummoch, a proud Scot who defies a shadowy American billionaire intent on buying up the glens. The story will involve family feuds, buried secrets, and star-crossed romances as the central family fights to protect their legacy from what the streamer calls "oligarchical land grabbing."

Jane Wiseman, Head of Originals for Paramount+, said the show's theme is universal. "At its heart, Laird is about one man standing his ground against unchecked wealth and power," she told Deadline. "There’s something universally resonant about watching someone fight to protect what matters most."

Who else is involved in the series?

The series was created by Jez Butterworth and his brother, writer John-Henry Butterworth, who previously co-created 'The Agency' for Paramount+. Joe Wright, who directed the first two episodes of 'The Agency,' is attached to direct the pilot for 'The Lair.'

Matt Thunell, President of Paramount Television Studios, praised the creative team. "Jez, John-Henry, and Georgia have imagined a gripping drama that explores how far one family will go to protect their land and legacy," he said. The series is produced by Paramount Television Studios and 101 Studios.

The project falls under an existing overall deal Butterworth has with Paramount. David C. Glasser, CEO of 101 Studios, expressed his enthusiasm for continuing the partnership. "Working with Jez and John Henry has been such an incredible experience these last few years," Glasser said. "I couldn’t be more thrilled to take another epic journey with them."