Joe Wright Kenneth Branagh team up for Paramount+ drama Laird

When you pair literary pedigree with high-stakes drama, the result is often pure cinematic gold. Paramount+ has just greenlit Laird, an epic family saga poised to captivate audiences by placing a profound struggle for heritage against the brutal reality of unchecked modern wealth.

At the helm of this ambitious project is Academy Award-winning actor Kenneth Branagh, who brings his gravitas and storytelling mastery to the role of the Laird of Castle Drummoch. This isn’t just a historical drama; it’s an exploration of how a proud Scot fights desperately to protect ancestral lands from shadowy American billionaires intent on acquiring them.

The story unfolds amidst the dramatic backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, where old family feuds clash with buried secrets and star-crossed romances. At its heart, Laird is about one man standing his ground against overwhelming power—a theme that resonates with universal truths about defending what matters most.

The creative team behind this epic possesses a remarkable pedigree. The project is crafted by writers Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth, and Georgia Lee, who bring their shared vision to the narrative structure. Overseeing the visual execution is two-time BAFTA winner Joe Wright, known for his masterful touch on films like Pride & Prejudice and Atonement.

Branagh is not just the star; he is deeply involved in the production as an executive producer alongside a stellar group of collaborators, including David C. Glasser and Ron Burkle. This ensemble promises a rich tapestry of character and emotional complexity that elevates the concept beyond a simple land dispute.

Paramount+ Head of Originals Jane Wiseman described the series as a powerful examination of “one man standing his ground against unchecked wealth and power,” underscoring the dramatic core. This shared commitment to thematic depth ensures that Laird is poised to be one of the streamer’s most exciting upcoming dramas.

The combination of Branagh’s commanding presence, the evocative setting of the Highlands, and the powerful narrative examining family legacy makes this project a must-watch. While the exact premiere date remains under wraps, fans can eagerly anticipate the unfolding story of the Laird of Castle Drummoch as he battles for his people and his patrimony.