A24, known for its critically acclaimed films and distinctive television projects, is venturing into the world of legendary football with a new series centered on Bill Shankly, the iconic manager who revolutionized Liverpool FC. As reported by Deadline, Jude Law has been cast as Shankly, signaling a major step forward for the ambitious production.
Shankly's tenure at Liverpool from 1959 to 1974 is the focus of the show. During his 15 years, he took the team from the Second Division to become a dominant force in English and European football, securing multiple league titles, FA Cups, and a UEFA Cup. His impact extended beyond trophies, forging an indelible connection between the club and its passionate fanbase, a legacy that continues to resonate today.
Driving the narrative is writer and creator Jack Thorne, known for his work on the crime drama Adolescence and fantasy series His Dark Materials. Thorne's involvement, alongside production partners Box to Box Films and A24, suggests a commitment to high-quality storytelling.
The series also boasts a producing team with deep ties to both television and football. Tom Werner, the current chairman of Liverpool FC, is on board as a producer, bringing not only his knowledge of the club but also a wealth of experience from producing classic American sitcoms like The Cosby Show and Roseanne. Werner shared his vision with Deadline, describing the upcoming show as "a story about family and relationships through the lens of a football club." He further elaborated on the unique bond Shankly fostered, stating, "Bill Shankly understood that it wasn’t just about finding the best talent on the team. It was about forging a connection with a fan base, and the reason that Liverpool is so special to me, besides the fact that you could say it’s got a billion fans worldwide, is that the relationship between the club and its supporters is really unique."
Werner envisions the series adopting an anthology format akin to The Crown, with potential future seasons exploring different pivotal eras and stories within Liverpool FC's rich history, including sensitive topics such as the Hillsborough tragedy. This approach suggests a long-term commitment to exploring the club's cultural significance.
Law, a two-time Oscar nominee for his performances in The Talented Mr. Ripley and Cold Mountain, is no stranger to acclaimed television roles, having previously starred as Pope Pius XIII in HBO's The Young Pope and The New Pope, and recently joining the Star Wars universe with Disney+'s Skeleton Crew. His casting as Shankly brings significant star power and gravitas to the project.
While the casting of Jude Law is a major development, details regarding a network or streaming service partner and a projected release window for the series are yet to be announced. Nonetheless, the combination of A24's prestige, Law's talent, and the compelling history of Bill Shankly promises a compelling and ambitious new entry into the television landscape.