Hailing from showrunner Kin Biller, with Biller also serving as executive producer alongside Brian Grazer, Ron Howard, Francie Calfo and Gigi Pritzker comes the second season of National Geographic series Genius. This time round, it’s been revealed that Antonio Banderas will be amongst the cast members taking part, with the actor stepping into the role of Pablo Picasso.
Antonio Banderas is set to play Pablo Picasso
Chronicling the life of the Spanish painter, the new season will likely be a big player come awards season, following the 10 nominations the first has received for this year’s Emmys.
Speaking about the new role, Banderas said: “The life story of Pablo Picasso has long since fascinated me and I have so much respect for this man, who also comes from my birthplace Málaga.
“I am thrilled to work with National Geographic, Brian, Ron, Ken and the rest of the Genius team to tell an authentic story of one of the most innovative painters in the world.”
Ron Howard adds: “Antonio was the natural choice. He, like Picasso, has a no-holds barred approach to life that will add to the genuineness that we’re looking for.
“He has such tremendous range as an actor, who I know will bring this brilliant and unconventional artist to life.”
Executive Vice President, Head of Global Scripted at National Geographic, Carolyn Bernstein is also impressed with Banderas joining the show, saying that the actor “exudes charisma and passion”.
“He checks all the boxes for us,” she says, “and we couldn’t be more pleased to have him lead the series.”
We’ll bring you more information on Genius season 2 as and when we get it.
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