Paramount+ Orders Scottish Highland Family Saga 'Laird' With Kenneth Branagh

Paramount+ has greenlit the new series Laird, a family drama starring and executive produced by Kenneth Branagh, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The project is the latest high-profile drama order for the streamer.

What is 'Laird' about?

The series will follow the Laird of Castle Drummoch, played by Branagh, a local estate owner who challenges the ambitions of an American billionaire intent on buying up large swaths of the Scottish glens. Paramount+ head of originals Jane Wiseman described the show's core theme in a statement.

"At its heart, Laird is about one man standing his ground against unchecked wealth and power," Wiseman said. "There's something universally resonant about watching someone fight to protect what matters most, and with Kenneth Branagh leading the series, and an equally remarkable creative team, we can't wait for audiences to root for the Laird of Castle Drummoch."

Who is behind the series?

The series was created by MobLand showrunner Jez Butterworth, his brother and Edge of Tomorrow screenwriter John-Henry Butterworth, and The 100 producer Georgia Lee. Joe Wright, the director of Pride & Prejudice and Darkest Hour, will direct the pilot.

Paramount Television Studios and 101 Studios will produce the show. In a statement, Paramount Television Studios president Matt Thunell praised the creative team, saying, "Jez, John-Henry, and Georgia have imagined a gripping drama that explores how far one family will go to protect their land and legacy."

Branagh will executive produce alongside David Glasser, the Butterworth brothers, Ron Burkle, David Hutkin, Bob Yari, Charles Finch, and Keith Cox.