MGM+, formerly known as Epix, has picked up the sci-fi mystery thriller Beacon 23, which stars Stephan James and Lena Headey. A co-production with AMC Networks and Spectrum, the series was first intended to air on Spectrum Originals before it shuttered.
It is based on Hugh Howey’s best-selling book and produced by Boat Rocker. The series is set to premiere on Nov. 12, featuring the first two of eight episodes. Created by Zak Penn and executive produced by Glen Mazzara, unfolds in the farthest reaches of the Milky Way, following characters Aster (Lena Headey), a government agent, and Halan (Stephan James), a stoic ex-military man, who find themselves trapped inside one of the intergalactic Beacons. These Beacons serve as lighthouses and are operated by a highly trained human and specialized AI. As Aster and Halan’s fates intertwine, a tense battle of wills ensues, with Halan questioning Aster’s true intentions.
“Beacon 23 is a series in the best tradition of thought-provoking genre storytelling,” said Michael Wright, head of MGM+ in a statement. “With the incredible vision of Zak Penn and Glen Mazzara, riveting performances by Lena Headey and Stephan James, and an exciting world-building design, Beacon 23 is essential viewing for fans of premium science-fiction drama.”
“We’re delighted to bring Beacon 23 to MGM+ and introduce viewers to a world in the dark recesses of space where nothing is quite what it seems,” said David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg, Co-Executive Chairmen, Boat Rocker Media and Co-Chairmen, Boat Rocker Studios. “Beacon 23 is a rare psychological thriller whose rich characters and gripping storylines take you to some pretty unexpected places. We’re grateful to our creative partners for helping bring this epic story to life.”
Penn and Mazzara executive produce alongside David Fortier, Ivan Schneeberg, James Middleton, Nick Nantell, Tina Thor, Katie O’Connell Marsh, Elisa Ellis, Liz Varner, Ira Steven Behr, Daniel Percival, Joy Blake, Lena Headey and Stephan James.