Benedict Cumberbatch is set to replace Tom Hardy in the upcoming movie adaptation of Jo Nesbø’sBlood on Snow. Plans for a movie adaptation of the 2015 Norwegian crime thriller had initially begun even prior to the book’s release, with Warner Bros. potentially eyeing Leonardo DiCaprio for the leading role. In 2017, Tobey Maguire later stepped in to purchase the rights to adapt the book, with the intention of having it become his own directorial debut. However, the project’s latest iteration will now see the movie helmed byNo Time To DiedirectorCary Fukunaga.
PerThe Hollywood Reporter,Cumberbatch has been selected to star alongside Aaron Taylor-Johnsonin theBlood on Snowrole that was originally intended for Hardy. While it is known that Taylor-Johnson will be playing Nesbø’s protagonist, the hitman and mob fixer Olav Johansen, it is believed thatCumberbatch will be playing a rival to Taylor-Johnson’s employer, named the Fisherman. Hardy, who was originally onboard to both act and produce, was forced to step away due to scheduling issues. Other confirmed cast members also include Eva Green, Emma Laird, and Ben Mendelsohn.
What Cumberbatch’s Casting Means For Blood On Snow
WithHardy’s collection of memorable gangster roles, including the real-life American mobster Al Capone andPeaky Blinders' Alfie Solomons, his original castingBlood on Snowseemed like a natural fit. However, while Cumberbatch may be best known for playing comic book sorcerers and highly astute detectives, he too has played more than his fair share of morally ambiguous roles throughout his career. Whether it beStar Trek: Into Darkness’Khan Noonien Singh or the domineering rancher Phil Burbank in Netflix’sThe Power of the Dog,Cumberbatch has also proven himself capable of playing intimidating characters.
Benedict Cumberbatch’s 8 Best Characters, Ranked
Benedict Cumberbatch is an incredible actor who has played a wide variety of roles across both movies and TV. His best have come from both areas.
Moreover, Nesbø’s original books could alsopotentially see Cumberbatch return for a second outingif Fukunaga’sBlood on Snowadaptation proves successful. With Nesbø having also penned a loosely connected sequel, dubbedMidnight Sun, which sees yet another hitman on the run from Cumberbatch’s purported role. Previously serving as the basis for 2022’s Italian-British movie,The Hanging Sun,a successful movie adaptation ofBlood on Snowcould potentially pave the way for a more faithful adaption with Cumberbatch returning as the Fisherman.
Our Take On Hardy’s Blood On Snow Replacement
Cumberbatch Is An Impressive Choice
As disappointing as the prospect of missing out on Hardy playing another intimidating crime boss, few viewers would consider Cumberbatch’s casting as anything other than a potential boon. With Nesbø’s other works currently forming the basis for a number of other English-language projects, including2024’sPrime VideomovieKiller Heatand 2017’sThe Snowman, Fukunaga’sBlood on Snowadaptation is already shaping up to be a potential hit.
Blood on Snow
Cast
Blood on Snow follows the story of Olav, a hitman with a strict moral code, who defies his employer’s orders to kill his wife, becoming their next target. This decision entangles him in Oslo’s gang wars, challenging his loyalties and transforming him into an unforeseen hero.
