The Man Who Fell to Earth Jumps to Showtime While Casting Leads

The Man Who Fell to Earth news is dropping fast. In February it was announced Chiwetel Ejiofor will play the title role, but in recent days there has been even more news!

First came word that the series, based on Walter Tevis’ novel that inspired the 1976 cult classic film starring David Bowie, would be rocketing from Paramount Plus’ to the premium cable channel Showtime, according to Deadline.

Then came word Naomie Harris was joining the series as Justin Falls, “a brilliant scientist and engineer who must conquer her own demons in the race to save two worlds.” Harris is best known for her roles in Moonlight and Skyfall.

Now Deadline is reporting Jimmi Simpson is joining Ejiofor and Harris for the series. He will portray Spencer Clay, “a CIA agent whose obsession with the alien’s true identity drives him to the edge of madness.”

The Man Who Fell to Earth will focus on an alien who falls to Earth during a trying time. He must deal with the demons of his past to influence humanity’s future. 

Alex Kurtzman and Jenny Lumet will serve as co-showrunner and executive producers. Additional executive producers include John Hlavin, Sarah Timberman, Carl Beverly and Heather Kadin. Production will begin next month in London. The series is set for a 2022 airdate.