HBO Max 'The Staircase': 5 things you didn't know about Colin Firth and Toni Colette
A gripping murder mystery is all set to premiere on HBO Max this May. 'The Staircase', a true-crime series starring Colin Firth and Toni Colette, and based on the documentary of the same name attempts to tell the story of Michael Peterson and his trial after being charged with murdering his wife Kathleen Peterson. She was found dead at the bottom of a staircase in their home and what followed was an investigation constantly filled with new twists. For those unaware, the docu-series, currently streaming on Netflix will help as a primer for those unaware.
The serialized version will see Firth and Colette play the Petersons and the first three episodes of the show will stream on May 5. Ahead of the release of the much-anticipated series, we take a look at who plays whom, and also a bit more about the cast.
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Colin Firth as Micheal Peterson
At the eye of the storm is Colin Firth's, Michael Peterson. Peterson, who served with the Marine Corps lived in Germany with his first wife Patricia and their two sons, and incidentally, his family friend Elizabeth Ratliff was found dead at the bottom of the staircase, and that death left Michael with her daughters Margaret (Sophie Turner) and Martha (Odessa Young).
Soon after, he moved to North Carolina and married Kathleen Peterson in 1997. In 2001, Kathleen was found dead in the same way Ratliff was. He was eventually charged with her murder. Firth, who plays the character, comes in as one of the decorated actors playing the part. His acting credits include 'Kingsman'. 'Mamma Mia' and was known for his portrayal of King George VI in 'The King’s Speech' — a role that won him an Academy Award as well.
Toni Collette as Kathleen Peterson
Toni Collette plays Kathlee, Michael’s wife whose death forms the crux of the series. Collette is best-known for her role in 'Muriel's Wedding' and the Australian actress has been one of the more prominent names in Hollywood. Her music career is well-documented as well. She wrote all 11 tracks of her band, 'Toni Collette, and The Finish's sole album 'Beautiful Awkward Pictures'. She is a self-confessed avid camper and also enjoys meditating.
Other cast
Michael Stuhlbarg as David Rudolf, Patrick Schwarzenegger, and Dane DeHaan as Todd and Clayton Peterson, Sophie Turner and Odessa Young as Margaret and Martha Ratliff, Olivia DeJonge as Caitlin Atwater, Tim Guinee as Bill Peterson, Vincent Vermignon as Jean-Xavier, Hannah Pniewski as Becky, Kevin Sizemore as Mark Zamperini, Robert Crayton as Ron Guerette, and Any Serkis as The Owl round up the rest of the cast.
Trailer
