Richard Jenkins Joins Amazon Series Adaptation of Ed Brubaker Graphic Novel ‘Criminal’

Joe Otterson

Richard Jenkins has been cast in Amazon Prime Video’s upcoming series adaptation of the “Criminal” graphic novels, Variety has learned.

The series was originally ordered at Amazon back in January. Jenkins is the first confirmed cast member. The show is described as “an interlocking universe of crime stories” based on the graphic novels by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips.

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Jenkins will play Ivan. The character is described as “Leo’s dad’s best friend, and has always been an uncle figure to him. He used to be a robber and criminal, but is now currently suffering from dementia. Leo is trying to care for him but realizes he’s more work than he can handle.”

Jenkins is a highly-respected actor with the rare ability to do comedy and drama in seemingly equal measure. He received Oscar nominations for his performances in the films “The Shape of Water” and “The Visitor” and has also starred in drama like “Nightmare Alley,” “Killing Me Softly,” “North Country,” and “The Company You Keep.” He is also known for roles in comedies like “Step Brothers,” “Burn After Reading,” “There’s Something About Mary,” and “Intolerable Cruelty.” His TV credits include “Dahmer: Monster — the Jeffrey Dahmer Story,” “Six Feet Under,” and “Berlin Station.” He won an Emmy for his role in the HBO miniseries “Olive Kitteridge” and received a nomination for his work in “Monster.”

Jenkins is repped by Gersh.

Brubaker will serve as co-showrunner and executive producer on “Criminal” along with Jordan Harper. Phillips also executive produces, as does Sarah Carbiener, and Phillip Barnett. Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden will direct the first four episodes. Legendary Television will also serve as an executive producer. The series is produced by Amazon MGM Studios.

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