Kenneth Branagh to lead new Paramount+ drama Laird

An epic family saga set in the modern Scottish Highlands.

Paramount+ has announced Laird, a new drama starring Kenneth Branagh, who will also executive produce.

Set in the modern Scottish Highlands, Laird is an epic family saga in which a proud Scot defies a shadowy American billionaire hellbent on buying up the glens. Amidst family feuds, buried secrets and star-crossed romances, the Laird of Castle Drummoch (Branagh) remains determined to protect his ancestral lands from oligarchical land grabbing.

Made by Paramount Television Studios and 101 Studios, Laird is created by Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth and Georgia Lee, directed by Joe Wright and executive produced by Kenneth Branagh alongside David C. Glasser, Jez Butterworth & John-Henry Butterworth, Joe Wright, Ron Burkle, David Hutkin, Bob Yari, Charles Finch, and Keith Cox.

Speaking about Laird, Paramount+'s Head of Originals, Jane Wiseman said "At its heart, Laird is about one man standing his ground against unchecked wealth and power. There's something universally resonant about watching someone fight to protect what matters most, and with Kenneth Branagh leading the series, and an equally remarkable creative team, we can't wait for audiences to root for the Laird of Castle Drummoch."

To which Matt Thunell, President, Paramount Television Studios, added "Jez, John-Henry, and Georgia have imagined a gripping drama that explores how far one family will go to protect their land and legacy. With Kenneth Branagh starring and Joe Wright directing, this is a singular creative team, and we are thrilled to once again partner with 101 Studios to bring this series to Paramount+."

And David Glasser, CEO of 101 Studios, said "Working with Jez and John Henry has been such an incredible experience these last few years. I couldn’t be more thrilled to take another epic journey with them."

Laird will air on Paramount+