The Dr. Grace Augustine of 'Avatar' will be seen as the divorced former first lady, who throws herself into her job as Secretary of State, in the USA Network drama series.
- Mar 7, 2012
AceShowbiz - USA Network has snagged big-screen actress Sigourney Weaver to headline its new series "Political Animals". The Ellen Ripley depicter in "Alien" film series is set to take the lead role in the political drama written by Greg Berlanti ("Brothers & Sisters").
The 62-year-old Oscar nominee is cast as Elaine Barrish, the divorced former First Lady and newly appointed Secretary of State who throws herself into the job after recovering from the dissolution of her marriage and losing the presidential nomination. She relies heavily on her son Doug, who will be portrayed by James Wolk.
Doug is an ambitious politico who serves as Barrish's chief of staff, but is tormented by his twin brother's struggles with addiction. Brittany Ishibashi will star as Doug's fiancee.
Berlanti will direct the pilot and serve as an executive producer with Laurence Mark ("Jerry Maguire"). USA has ordered six episodes of the show which is set in Washington DC, but envisions it as a regular series.
Weaver's notable roles include Dana Barrett in "Ghostbusters", Mary Griffith in TV movie "Prayers for Bobby" and Dr. Grace Augustine in "Avatar". She most recently appeared in "Abduction" and "Rampart".
