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Kenneth Branagh transforms into Boris Johnson for 'This Sceptred Isle' first look

Kenneth Branagh attends the Opening Night Screening of
Kenneth Branagh attends the Opening Night Screening of "All is True" at the 30th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival on January 04, 2019 in Palm Springs, California. (Photo by Rich Fury/Getty Images for Palm Springs International Film Festival)

A first look at Kenneth Branagh as Boris Johnson in Sky's This Sceptred Isle has been released.

The actor is playing the Prime Minister in the Sky Original drama which is due to air next year.

A teaser photo sees Branagh transformed into the politician in a suit and tie as he sports a blond wig to imitate Johnson's infamous wild locks - along with a concerned expression.

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The five-part drama produced by Fremantle, Passenger & Revolution Films will chart the events surrounding the PM, his government and the UK in the first wave of the global coronavirus pandemic in 2020.

Kenneth Branagh as Boris Johnson for 'This Sceptred Isle'
Kenneth Branagh as Boris Johnson for 'This Sceptred Isle'

It's set to recount Johnson's own experience of contracting the virus and the arrival of his son Wilfred with partner Carrie Symonds as well as the response of scientists, nurses, and doctors.

The programme is based on the first-hand testimony of people inside Number 10 Downing Street, the Department of Health, The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage), and from hospitals and care homes across the country.

The series is being directed by Michael Winterbottom, who is also a co-writer alongside Kieron Quirke.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaks at a virtual press conference to give an update on the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic, at Downing Street on Ferbruary 10, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Steve Reigate - WPA Pool/Getty Images)
Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaks at a virtual press conference to give an update on the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic, at Downing Street on Ferbruary 10, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Steve Reigate - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

When the drama was announced last month, Winterbottom said: "The first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic will be remembered forever.

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“A time when the country came together to battle an invisible enemy. A time when people were more aware than ever of the importance of community.

“Our series weaves together countless true stories – from Boris Johnson in Number 10 to front line workers around the country – chronicling the efforts of scientists, doctors, care home workers and policy makers to protect us from the virus”.

This Sceptred Isle will air in Autumn 2022 on Sky Atlantic and NOW TV.

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