Stranger Things star will play The Elephant Man for BBC
Stranger Things star Charlie Heaton – aka Jonathan Byers – will play Joseph Merrick in an upcoming drama series for BBC One.
The BBC has confirmed that Heaton will star in a two-part biopic titled The Elephant Man, which will tell the extraordinary true story of Joseph Merrick, known by many as the 'Elephant Man'.
Merrick was an act in the so-called freak shows of the 19th century, where he drew the attention of audiences and the world of medicine with his significant, and mostly unexplained, face and body deformities.
[The 1980 film The Elephant Man]
Written by Neil McKay (Moorside), The Elephant Man follows the life of Merrick, starting with his birth and ending with his death – from his working-class beginnings in Leicestershire to his time at the London Hospital and his vital friendship with Dr Frederick Treves.
It was suggested that Merrick had been born with a rare congenital disorder called Proteus syndrome in the 1980s, but the reason for his disabilities has never been conclusively decided.
Because of his unique condition, Joseph Merrick's life has been depicted on both screen and stage, with portrayals of Merrick from the likes of John Hurt, David Bowie and Bradley Cooper.
Reflecting on his upcoming role, and its unique challenges, Charlie Heaton said that he was "extremely excited and honoured" to play Merrick.
Related: Stranger Things' Charlie Heaton opens up about the "f**king awful" time after that LAX incident
"This is such a special role and a challenge for any actor. Joseph has such an incredible story and I can't wait to go on this journey and bring him to life," the actor said.
Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama, added: "Charlie Heaton promises to be extraordinary in the lead role and we are excited to be telling this powerful, resonant story on BBC One."
The Elephant Man, which is set to film in Wales, has been written by The Moorside's Neil McKay and will be directed by Mum's Richard Laxton. Poldark's Tom Mullens will produce.
The Elephant Man is expected to air on BBC One next year.
Want up-to-the-minute entertainment news and features? Just hit 'Like' on our Digital Spy Facebook page and 'Follow' on our @digitalspy Instagram and Twitter account.
('You Might Also Like',)
