Playing the captain of Avenue 5

Hugh Laurie is to star in Armando Iannucci’s new sci-fi comedy pilot, Avenue 5.

The House star has signed up to play another American, Ryan Clark, the calm and collected captain of the spaceship which gives the show its provisional title.

Little is known of the show, but earlier this year, Iannucci said: ‘All I can tell you is that it is set in the world of space tourism in about 30-40 years’ time… It’s basically about people who have nothing in common apart from being in space, and they’re trying to work out how to get on with each other. 

Laurie was previously played Senator Thomas James in Iannucci’s Veep and will also star in his upcoming movie The Personal History of David Copperfield.

HBO has ordered a pilot episode of the series, as well as a number of  extras scripts in case it is picked up for a series.

The pilot will be shot in London this year, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Published: 23 Aug 2018