Highlands Saga: Branagh Fights Billionaire for Ancestral Lands

Paramount+ has expanded the cast for its upcoming series "Laird," an epic family saga set and filmed in the stunning Scottish Highlands. Kenneth Branagh stars as the Laird of Castle Drummoch, a proud Scottish figure who stands against a formidable American billionaire, played by Peter Sarsgaard, who aims to acquire the region's glens. The production features a compelling ensemble cast including Jennifer Ehle, Peter Mullan, Phia Saban, Ruaridh Mollica, Holliday Grainger, Douglas Hodge, and Corey Mylchreest.

Helmed by creators Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth, and Georgia Lee, with Joe Wright directing the pilot, "Laird" delves into themes of family conflict, hidden secrets, and star-crossed love affairs. The narrative centers on the Laird's unwavering resolve to preserve his ancestral lands from oligarchical land grabs. Paramount Television Studios and 101 Studios are producing the series, which will be available globally on Paramount+.