David Gyasi has dropped out of starring in the 8-episode BBC drama series The Interceptor, from Tony Saint.
Gyasi, who was to play the lead in the drama project, will be replaced by fellow Brit O.T. Fagbenle (Doctor Who, EastEnders), according to UK TV news site, TV Wise.
The Interceptor follows a state of the art law enforcement team, known as UNIT, whose mission is to hunt down Britain’s most dangerous and ruthless criminals.
O.T. will play Ash, a new recruit to the UNIT, whose dream is to bring down the biggest of those criminals. Trevor Eve will play Roach, a ruthless criminal and Ash’s main target; Jo Joyner will play Ash’s wife; Robert Lonsdale will be Ash’s partner and best friend.
Lorraine Ashbourne, Anna Skellern, Gary Beadle and Lee Boardman round out the cast.
Luther helmer Farren Blackburn is attached to direct, with production scheduled to begin next month on location in London, with BBC One eyeing a fall 2014 premiere.
“We’re incredibly sorry to be losing David from The Interceptor. He’s a very talented actor and we hope to find another opportunity to work with him again in the future”, said Kate Harwood, Head of BBC Drama Production, England. “In the meantime, we’re delighted that O.T. Fagbenle has been able to join us and look forward to welcoming him on board.”
David Gyasi commented: “I’m very disappointed to not be able to continue filming this role, but I look forward to working with the BBC in the future. The Interceptor team have been wonderful to work with and I wish them and O-T the very best of luck with the production.”
O.T. Fagbenle, whose credits include both stage and screen, added: “I’ve admired David Gyasi since meeting him, he’s an incredible talent and beautiful person. It’s an honour to take over from him. I’m thrilled to be a part of this wonderful BBC production.”
