'The First Lady': 5 things to know about Showtime's anthology on presidential wives
Showtime's latest release 'The First Lady' is nothing less than a revelation about how some of the most powerful decisions came from behind closed curtains. The anthology stars Viola Davis, the protagonist that played Annalise Keating in the prominent Netflix series 'How To Get Away with a Murder'.
This inspiring show journals the stories of the lives of three of the most of the most enigmatic women who worked in untiringly for the nation and made a difference so loud that it took the world by storm. We're talking about Michelle Obama, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Betty Ford. It's an anthology series that showcases some incredible backstories of their lives. Michelle, wife to former President Barack Obama, is a philanthropist, businesswoman and a writer who worked hard to raise awareness on education, poverty and nutrition among young minds. Eleanor, the first lady to manoeuvre her power to fight for women's rights and civil rights and Betty who was unappologeticaly outspoken, was always forthright in talking about issues that were shunned back in the day.
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When does 'The First Lady' release, and where can you watch it?
'The First Lady' premieres April 17 on Showtime at 9 pm ET/PT.
What is 'The First Lady' about?
The official synopsis reads: "A revelatory reframing of American leadership through the lens of the First Ladies. Starring Viola Davis as Michelle Obama, Michelle Pfeiffer as Betty Ford, and Gillian Anderson as Eleanor Roosevelt, this series delves deep into the Ladies' personal and political lives. Exploring everything from their journeys to Washington, family life, and world-changing political contributions, the impact of the White House's women is no longer hidden from view."
The ten-episode series has an hour long episodes entailing the audiences attention in every turn. The first episode is called 'That White House' and the official synopsis for it reads: "After Franklin’s sudden polio diagnosis, Eleanor Roosevelt commits to enabling his political future despite pressure from her mother-in-law, Sara. As the Watergate scandal unfolds, Betty Ford unexpectedly becomes Second Lady upon Jerry’s nomination as Vice President and she clashes with his staff over her newly public role. Following the historic 2008 election, Michelle Obama wrestles with the expectations and dangers that Barack and their children face as the first Black family to live in the White House." This show plots a story where the ladies have not only been the powerhouse behind the succes of their spouses but have themselves left a mark of glory and pride, all the while motivating tons of people.
Who stars in 'The First Lady'?
The leading ladies in the show would be Viola Davis, Gillian Anderson, and Michelle Pfeiffer. Although, the cast also includes O- T Fagbenle, Dakota Fanning, Lexi Underwood, Regina Taylor, Kiefer Sutherland, Aya Cash, Ben Cook, Jayme Lawson, Clea DuVall, and Aaran Eckhart.
Showrunners
The story is directed and executive produced by Susanne Bier. It is created by Aaron Cooley. Executive producers are expected to include Viola Davis, Julius Tennon, Cathy Schulman, Jeff Gaspin, Brad Kaplan, and Aaron Cooley.
Trailer