Michael Douglas stars as American Founding Father Benjamin Franklin in the new Apple TV+ limited series, Franklin.
Though Franklin is indeed an American icon, the show takes place predominantly in France. In 1776, Franklin sails across the pond seeking aid from the French in their fight against the British for independence, which proved to be a pivotal point in the American Revolution. Tagging along with the diplomat is Franklin’s grandson, Temple (Noah Jupe), and all the while, British spies and French pessimists threaten to thwart their plans altogether. “Grandfather, how long must we stay?” asks Temple in the trailer. “Until we win France to our side, or we are hanged,” Franklin replies. Watch the trailer below.
Based on Stacy Schiff’s historical novel A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America, Franklin chronicles the 70 year-old polymath as he embarks on “the greatest gamble of his career.” Also set to star in the limited series are Theodore Pellerin, Thibault de Montalembert, Daniel Mays, Ludivine Sagnier, Eddie Marsan, Assaad Bouab, and Jeanne Balibar.
Benjamin Frankly is not the only American Founding Father to get the miniseries treatment — John Adams, an HBO miniseries starring Paul Giamatti in the titular role, premiered in 2008 and won a record 13 Emmy Awards. That show was adapted and written by Kirk Ellis, who also serves as writer and executive producer for Franklin.
Franklin will premiere globally on Apple TV+ with the first three episodes on Friday, April 12, followed by one new episode every Friday through May 17, 2024. If you aren’t already a subscriber, you can sign up for a free 7-day trial here.