Fans of John le Carré's intricate spy novels have reason to celebrate: the legendary author's most iconic character, George Smiley, is returning to the screen after a 15-year absence. The new MGM+ series, Legacy of Spies, has just wrapped filming, and the first images have been released, offering a glimpse of Matthew Macfadyen in the role of the unassuming yet brilliant intelligence officer.
Smiley, who first appeared in le Carré's debut novel Call for the Dead, is a far cry from the glamorous James Bond archetype. He's a quiet, methodical, and often overlooked figure, but his dedication and occasional ruthlessness make him a compelling protagonist. Over the years, the character has been portrayed by esteemed actors like James Mason, Alec Guinness, and Gary Oldman. Now, Macfadyen—known for his Emmy-winning turn in Succession—takes on the mantle, and the new photos show him perfectly embodying Smiley's understated style, complete with off-the-rack suits and unfashionable glasses.
The series, which shares its title with le Carré's final Smiley novel, will adapt several of his works, including The Spy Who Came in from the Cold. In that novel, Smiley plays a supporting role, while the lead is Alec Leamas, a British agent tasked with infiltrating East Germany as a defector to spread disinformation. Charlie Hunnam steps into the shoes of Leamas, a role famously played by Richard Burton in the 1965 film adaptation. Hunnam's portrayal promises to capture the world-weariness of the character, as seen in the newly released images.
The cast is stacked with talent, including Daniel Brühl (Captain America: Civil War), Devrim Lingnau Islamoğlu (The Empress), Agnes O'Casey (Star City), Felix Kammerer (Frankenstein), Dan Stevens (Onslaught), Jake Dunn (My Brilliant Career), Anjana Vasan (We Are Lady Parts), Charlotte Ritchie (Legends), Joe Alwyn (Hamnet), and Hugh Laurie (House).
With filming complete, Legacy of Spies is now in post-production, and MGM+ has yet to announce a premiere date. The series is expected to be a major draw for fans of le Carré's work and newcomers alike, offering a deep dive into the morally complex world of Cold War espionage. As we await more details, this first look is sure to whet the appetite of viewers eager to see Macfadyen and Hunnam bring these iconic characters to life.
For those who can't get enough of spy dramas, the upcoming War & Peace on BritBox also features actors who have been in the Bond conversation, making it a perfect companion piece. And if you're in the mood for a different kind of thriller, Theo James' WWII bomb heist is another exciting option.
Stay tuned to Collider for more updates on Legacy of Spies as they become available.
