Upcoming Series 'The First Lady' Will Tell Stories Of Eleanor Roosevelt, Michelle Obama, And More

by Jon Agustin / Jan 25, 2021 03:36 AM EST

Showtime is brewing up a new anthology series that will feature America's previous first ladies, including Eleanor Roosevelt, Betty Ford, Michelle Obama, and more. Titled "The First Lady," the series has already unveiled its star-studded cast.

The first to sign on to the new project is Viola Davis, to play the role of Michelle Obama. Davis is an award-winning actress who is the first African-American actress to be hailed with the "Triple Crown of Acting".

Meanwhile, Michelle Pfeiffer, who has been known for her impressive performance as Catwoman in the 1990s movie "Batman Returns," will portray Betty Ford, who was the first lady in the 1970s. Ford has been known for her advocacy against alcohol and substance abuse.

Eleanor Roosevelt, the wife of former president Franklin D. Roosevelt, will also be featured in the series' first season. She is also the longest-serving first lady of the United States.

According to Amy Israel, Showtime's executive vice-president for scripted programming, Pfeiffer brings "authenticity, vulnerability, and complexity to all her roles."

"The Night Manager" and "The Undoing" director Susanne Bier is reportedly directing the series, who the Showtime vice-president noted for commanding the screen with "honesty and singular visual style."

Israel pointed out how she was looking forward and thrilled to witness the powerhouse combination of Davis, Bier and Pfeiffer.

"The First Lady" will tell the story of America's most celebrated first ladies in their perspective and through the lens of these women at the heart of the White House. Set in the East Wing of the White House, where the world's most important decisions by the country's charismatic and dynamic first ladies are made yet hidden from the view of the people.

Aaron Cooley writes with Davis and Julius' Tennon's JuVee Productions, Jeff Gaspin's Gaspin Media, and Cathy Schulman's Welle Entertainment. It is co-produced by Showtime and Lionsgate TV.