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'Franklin': Cast and Character Guide on who's playing who in Apple TV+'s biographical drama series

Inspired by Stacy Schiff's book from 2005, 'A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America', 'Franklin' revisits American history

PARIS, FRANCE: Apple TV+ is gearing up for the release of 'Franklin', a new TV series that revisits American history. The series draws inspiration from Stacy Schiff's acclaimed 2005 book, 'A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America.'

The eight-episode series is set to premiere on Friday, April 12, with the story centered around Benjamin Franklin. It will delve into his pivotal eight years in France, during which he played a crucial role in shaping America's fight for democracy.

Directed by Tim Van Patten, 'Franklin' features a remarkable cast, bringing to life the legendary figures of American history, including Michael Douglas, Noah Jupe, Marc Duret, Ludivine Sagnier, and others.

At first look, Benjamin Franklin appears as a man of many talents: a scientist, inventor, writer, and diplomat. However, the biographical drama 'Franklin' on Apple TV+ aims to explore more profound aspects of his legacy, shedding light on his critical role as a founding father of the United States.

The official synopsis reads, "Explores the story of one of the greatest gambles of Franklin's career. At age 70, Franklin outmaneuvered British spies and French informers while engineering the Franco-American alliance of 1778."

If you're eager to watch the show, you might be curious about the cast and their respective characters. Here's a guide to help you out!

Michael Douglas as Benjamin Franklin

In the spotlight as the main character is the professional actor Michael Douglas, renowned for his recent portrayal of Dr Hank Pym in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

However, long before his MCU role, Douglas built a remarkable career in Hollywood, starring in films such as 'Basic Instinct' (1992), 'Falling Down' (1993), and 'The American President' (1995), among others.

He steps into the shoes of the iconic Benjamin Franklin, a figure renowned for his roles as a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher, and political philosopher. Franklin holds a significant place in American history as one of the key figures in the establishment of American democracy.

Noah Jupe as William Temple Franklin

Playing the role of William Temple Franklin Jr, the grandson of Benjamin Franklin and an American diplomat and real estate speculator, is the talented young actor Noah Jupe.

William Temple Franklin Jr began working as his grandfather's secretary at 16 and is well-known for his contributions to the American diplomatic mission in France.

Despite being only 19 years old, Jupe has an impressive resume. He has appeared in television shows like 'The Night Manager' and 'The Undoing', as well as popular films like 'Suburbicon' (2017) and 'Ford v Ferrari' (2019).

In 2019, he received a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male for his role in 'Honey Boy'.

Ludivine Sagnier as Anne Louise Brillon de Jouy

Taking on the role of Anne Louise Brillon de Jouy, a French musician and composer from the late 1700s, is the French star Ludivine Sagnier.

Anne Louise Brillon de Jouy crossed paths with Benjamin Franklin in France when he resided near the Brillon household.

Ludivine Sagnier is a renowned French actress, receiving three nominations for the César Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her notable roles include 'Peter Pan' (2003) and 'A Secret' (2007), among others.

Thibault de Montalembert as Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes

Adding to the French talent, Thibault de Montalembert will portray the character of Charles Gravier, comte de Vergennes, a prominent French statesman and diplomat who served as Foreign Minister from 1774 to 1787 under Louis XVI's reign.

Thibault Charles Marie Septime de Montalembert, known simply as Thibault de Montalembert, is recognized for his television roles in 'The Tunnel' and 'Call My Agent!', along with an extensive career in film spanning decades. 

How to stream 'Franklin'?

To watch the biographical drama series, an exclusive Apple TV+ membership is required.

If you're a new user, you may begin with a free seven-day trial of Apple TV+, which allows you to access its premium content without charge.

After that, you can subscribe to the regular package, which has a monthly starting price of $9.99.

'Franklin' trailer

'Franklin' will be released on AppleTV+ on Friday, April 12.