Kevin Costner is reportedly negotiating to portray former U.S. President Bill Clinton in 'United,' a new TV series developed with Leonardo DiCaprio's Appian Way. The project focuses on real-life United Nations missions, particularly the 1999 East Timor crisis. Production is set to begin next year in Atlanta and Spain.
Project Overview
'United' is an upcoming TV series that dramatizes true stories of courage and sacrifice by UN humanitarian staff. It centers on the 1999 uprising in East Timor following a UN-organized independence referendum. The territory, a former Portuguese colony annexed by Indonesia in 1975, faced decades of repression before the late 1990s vote for independence. President Bill Clinton played a key role in de-escalating the violence, coordinating with leaders from Australia, Portugal, and other UN-affiliated nations.
The series is written and directed by David Raymond, who has collaborated with the UN's Creative Community Outreach Initiative since the tenure of former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. It highlights themes of shared humanity through real events unearthed in partnership with the UN.
Casting and Production Details
Costner, known for roles in 'Yellowstone' and 'Horizon: An American Saga,' is developing the project alongside DiCaprio's production company. Reports indicate he is in negotiations to star as Clinton, though this remains unconfirmed. Chukwudi Iwuji, recognized from 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3' and 'The Split,' is set to play UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
Filming is scheduled to start in 2025 in Atlanta and Spain. Fifth Season is handling international distribution, but no network or streaming platform has been announced yet. A release date remains undetermined.
Background Context
This marks another historical role for Costner, following portrayals like Eliot Ness in 'The Untouchables' and Jim Garrison in 'JFK.' The series aligns with his recent work on ambitious projects post-'Yellowstone,' where he played John Dutton until mid-season five.
