Billy Bob Thornton to star in TV's 'Fargo' series

[August 03, 2013]  BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (AP) -- Oscar winner Billy Bob Thornton will star in the TV version of the film "Fargo."

FX network boss John Landgraf said Friday that Thornton has signed on to a limited series based on the 1996 crime comedy-drama. It's scheduled for a 10-episode run on FX next spring.

Thornton will play a rootless con artist. No characters will be carried over from the film, which brought a best-actress Oscar to Frances McDormand.

Even so, Landgraf says the series will be "remarkably true to the film." Its creators, Joel and Ethan Coen, are associated with the series.

Thornton has had many acclaimed movie performances. He won an Oscar for writing the 1996 drama "Sling Blade," in which he also starred.

No other cast members have been announced.

[Associated Press]

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