Liam Neeson gave life to the character of Bryan Mills in three films of "Taken." On Feb. 27, 2017, his origin story will begin as a TV series with the same title on NBC. Clive Standen, who is known for his work on "Vikings," will take over playing Bryan Mills in the small screen version.
"Taken," the TV show, was first developed in 2015 with "Homeland" executive producer Alexander Cary serving as head writer and Luc Besson as co-creator. Besson is the man behind the three hit movies with Liam Neeson. Their idea was to develop a prequel of the films but it would be set in present day.
In early 2016, the show found its leading man in Clive Standen. The British actor is well-known to viewers as Rollo in the hit series "Vikings" on History. According to Deadline, Standen's character has not been killed off in "Vikings" despite his commitment to "Taken." He will still be part of the period drama in a guest capacity.
Joining Standen in "Taken" are Jennifer Beals as Christina Hart, Gaius Charles as John, Monique Gabriela Curnen as Vlasik, Michael Irby as Sam and James Landry Hebert as Casey. This version will have Bryan Mills joining the CIA's Emergency Covert Action Team. It will chart how he was able to develop his skills to become the top hunter and black operations agent.
NBC has released the first teaser to "Taken," which shows Bryan Mills saving train passengers from a gunman. But the incident was costly for the one person he was supposed to protect. Watch it below.
"It's a very intelligent drama," Standen told Digital Spy about his new series. "I would describe it as a cross between '24' and 'Homeland'," the actor added.
Standen also said that his take on Bryan Mills is different from Liam Neeson's since the character is still learning the ropes. "He's pretty much a rough diamond," Standen said.
He hopes, however, that Neeson and the viewers will appreciate the TV version. Catch its debut on Monday, Feb. 27, on NBC.
