We all know Scarlett Johansson can kick butt literally, but it’s been a while since we saw her BAMF-ery demonstrated in a less overtly action-packed role. But that’s all about to change—thanks to Sony Television Pictures, Scar Jo is about to ditch her gauntlets and grace the small screen as one of American literature’s most ruthless female characters.
According to Deadline, the actress has signed on to star in and executive produce the eight-episode period miniseries Custom of the Country, based on the book of the same name by Pulitzer Prize-winner Edith Wharton. Johansson will play Wharton’s conniving Undine Spragg, a Machiavellian social-climber who uses her beauty to rise in the ranks of New York high society. Custom is currently being considered for a cable run and will be written by Christopher Hampton (Dangerous Liaisons, Atonement); Hampton also wrote an unproduced feature Custom of the Country script nearly two decades ago for Michelle Pfeiffer.
Are you guys excited to see what Johansson’s new project has in store? Custom sounds promising at least for fans of period dramas (Downton Abbey writer Julian Fellowes cites Wharton’s book as an inspiration for his show), and TV has a recent history of giving A-list stars a chance to redefine their careers and capabilities. Hey, if nothing else, at least it’s not Lucy II!
(via Pajiba)
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