Viola Davis to star in new Paramount+ thriller, 'Ascent'
by Karen Butler · UPIAug. 4 (UPI) -- Oscar-winning actress Viola Davis has signed on to star in and executive produce the new Paramount+ thriller series, Ascent.
John Logan -- whose credits include Skyfall, Gladiator, Michael and Penny Dreadful -- will serve as showrunner and executive producer.
Production is slated to begin in Los Angeles in 2027.
"Viola Davis doesn't just take on roles; she transforms them. Catriona Vail is an incredibly complex character and Viola is exactly the generational talent to bring her to life, Jane Wiseman, head of originals for Paramount+, said in a press release Tuesday.
"With John Logan and Michael Aguilar behind the camera, Ascent is high-stakes television at its best."
Davis is known for her roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, The Help, Doubt, The Woman King, How To Get Away with Murder and The First Lady.
Viola Davis turns 60: a look back
Viola Davis holds the award for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for "The Help" at the NAACP Image Awards in Los Angeles on February 17, 2012. The actress later discussed issues she had with the film. Photo by Danny Moloshok/UPI | License Photo