David Goyer undertook the monumental task of bringing Isaac Asimov’s revered science-fiction narratives to life, and the Apple TV+ series “Foundation” boasts an exceptional ensemble of actors. Asimov, a cornerstone figure in science fiction, authored the Foundation series of novels and short stories, which went on to influence numerous other works in the genre. Despite this, previous attempts to adapt Foundation have met with limited success, primarily due to the sprawling narrative, spanning a thousand years with few recurring characters. The emergence of streaming platforms and the success of long-form storytelling, exemplified by “Game of Thrones,” have shifted the landscape in favour of projects like “Foundation.”
Goyer’s endeavour has resulted in a visually stunning science-fiction series available exclusively on Apple TV+, featuring a cast that blends established names and celebrated actors with emerging talent, many of whom play pivotal roles. This convergence promises to deliver a truly remarkable viewing experience, as seasoned performers collaborate with fresh faces to propel the narrative.
Jared Harris takes on the role of Hari Seldon, a character central to the Foundation’s narrative. Seldon, a mathematician who has mastered psychohistory, drives the story by predicting future societal changes. Through science fiction techniques, Harris’s portrayal endures long past the character’s expected lifespan. A distinguished English actor, Harris, the son of Oscar-winner Richard Harris, studied drama at Duke University before completing his acting studies in England. Notable for his roles in productions such as “Fringe,” “Mad Men,” “The Crown,” and “The Terror,” Harris’s extensive career spans both television and film.
Lee Pace embodies Brother Day, a significant figure in the Foundation narrative, serving as the Emperor, a counterpart to Hari Seldon. While Asimov’s Emperors are less developed as characters, Goyer introduces the concept of a “genetic dynasty,” with clones of Emperor Cleon ensuring what they believe to be a consistent rule. Pace, an actor hailing from Oklahoma with roots in Broadway, has graced both the small and big screens. Recognizable for his roles in “Pushing Daisies,” “Halt and Catch Fire,” and as Ronan the Accuser in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Guardians of the Galaxy,” Pace’s versatile talent has left a significant mark in various productions.
Laura Birn takes on the role of Demerzel in Foundation, a character initially an alias of the android R. Daneel Olivaw in Asimov’s novels. This connection bridges Asimov’s two renowned science-fiction franchises, linking “I, Robot” with Foundation. A Finnish actor, Birn initially gained prominence in Finnish cinema and television before achieving international recognition with roles in productions like “The Ones Below” and the Netflix series “The Innocents.”
Terrence Mann joins the Foundation cast as Brother Dusk, a pivotal role in the story’s imperial hierarchy. Mann’s portrayal brings depth to this character, who, like Lee Pace’s, grapples with playing multiple iterations over the years. Mann, originally from Kentucky, commenced his acting career in theater, eventually transitioning to television with notable roles in projects like “Whispers,” “Sense8,” and “The Dresden Files.”
Lou Llobell plays the character of Gaal Dornick, Seldon’s protégé, in Goyer’s adaptation. Departing from Asimov’s original portrayal, Gaal undergoes significant transformation, including a gender swap. Llobell, a rising talent from Zimbabwe, portrays this self-taught young woman from a planet where the pursuit of knowledge is considered heretical.
Leah Harvey portrays Salvor Hardin, a character reimagined from Asimov’s works, serving as the Foundation’s sworn defender. Harvey, a non-binary British actor, marks their presence in Foundation with a captivating performance, contributing a fresh perspective to the narrative.
This ensemble is further enriched by the contributions of numerous other actors, each adding depth and dimension to the expansive world of Foundation. Collectively, this exceptional cast promises to elevate the series to new heights, offering viewers a truly immersive experience.