The First Lady, an upcoming anthology series by Showtime, dives into the exceptional stories of Washington DC’s first ladies, with the first season spotlighting Eleanor Roosevelt, Betty Ford, and Michelle Obama. Viola Davis plays Michelle Obama, and a new trailer for The First Lady reveals just how impeccable the casting is.
Last year, Obama gave Davis her seal of approval, referring to the actress as the greatest. “I feel that I’m not worthy,” she told Pop Sugar. “I wish I could be better to live up to the character that Viola has to play, but it’s exciting. Anything Viola does, she does it with passion and vigor, and I know she will do no less for this role.”
The series is executively produced by Liongsgate, Davis, and JuVee Productions, Davis’s company that she runs alongside her husband Julius Tennon. The all-star cast also includes Lexi Underwood, who will play Malia Obama; O-T Fagbenle as Barack Obama; Dakota Fanning as Susan Ford; Michelle Pfeiffer as Betty Ford; and Gillian Anderson, who will star as Eleanor Roosevelt.
Based on the trailer, The First Lady conveys a tone that is dramatic and tense, yet lighthearted at times. O-T Fagbenle nails the distinct mannerisms of Barack Obama down to a T, and the chemistry between him and Davis on-screen is palpable.
Featuring Award-winning actors who are certain to truly embody the spirit of their character, here is a series that will indubitably create a lasting impression on its viewers.
The First Lady will air on Showtime on April 17th. Watch the trailer below:
