The BBC and MGM+ have unveiled first-look images from their upcoming series 'Legacy of Spies,' based on John le Carré's espionage novels. The images show Matthew Macfadyen playing George Smiley, the spymaster character created by le Carré, and Charlie Hunnam playing Alec Leamas.
According to Deadline, the drama is an eight-part series and marks the character Smiley's return to screen. Smiley was previously portrayed by Gary Oldman in the film 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy,' according to Variety.
Macfadyen is known for his role in the series 'Succession,' according to Deadline. The images reportedly show him wearing glasses associated with the Smiley character.
How each side covered it
Left
- Variety noted George Smiley's previous on-screen portrayal by Gary Oldman in 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.'
- Coverage pointed out that Oldman currently stars in another spy-themed series, 'Slow Horses.'
- Described the series as an upcoming espionage thriller from BBC and MGM+.
“John Le Carré’s Cold War Spymaster George Smiley Returns in First Look at Matthew Macfadyen in ‘Legacy of Spies’” — Variety
Center
- BBC News and BBC Sport both reported the first-look images revealing Macfadyen and Hunnam.
- Deadline specified the series is an eight-part drama.
- Deadline reported that the images include Macfadyen wearing glasses associated with the Smiley character.
- Center outlets identified Macfadyen's prior role in 'Succession.'
“Matthew Macfadyen Is Iconic Le Carré Spy George Smiley In First Glimpse At The BBC & MGM+’s ‘Legacy Of Spies’” — Deadline
Right
- The Times framed the story around Macfadyen's career, referencing his earlier role in 'Spooks.'
“From Spooks to Smiley: Matthew Macfadyen in A Legacy of Spies” — The Times
Questions readers ask
What is 'Legacy of Spies' about?
'Legacy of Spies' is an upcoming BBC and MGM+ series based on John le Carré's espionage novels, featuring the character George Smiley, played by Matthew Macfadyen, and Alec Leamas, played by Charlie Hunnam.
Who plays George Smiley in the new series?
Matthew Macfadyen, known for his role in 'Succession,' plays George Smiley in 'Legacy of Spies.'
Has George Smiley appeared on screen before?
Yes, according to Variety, George Smiley was previously portrayed by Gary Oldman in the film 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy.'
How many episodes will 'Legacy of Spies' have?
According to Deadline, the series will have eight episodes.
Sources · 5 outlet reports
- VarietyLeft-leaningJohn Le Carré’s Cold War Spymaster George Smiley Returns in First Look at Matthew Macfadyen in ‘Legacy of Spies’
- BBC NewsCenterMatthew Macfadyen and Charlie Hunnam revealed in first-look images from Legacy Of Spies
- BBC SportCenterMatthew Macfadyen and Charlie Hunnam revealed in first-look images from Legacy Of Spies
- DeadlineCenterMatthew Macfadyen Is Iconic Le Carré Spy George Smiley In First Glimpse At The BBC & MGM+’s ‘Legacy Of Spies’
- The TimesRight-leaningFrom Spooks to Smiley: Matthew Macfadyen in A Legacy of Spies