Viola Davis to play Michelle Obama in upcoming 'First Ladies' series
Viola Davis is making her way to the White House.
Showtime has given a series order to the anthology series "First Ladies," in which Davis will play former first lady Michelle Obama. Davis also executive produces the series.
The actress confirmed the news in an Instagram post, writing, "Sooo proud!!! Honoring and elevating these powerful, worthy Queens with respect."
"First Ladies," which went in development in August, is said to follow the "personal and political lives of the country's most enigmatic heroes."
It will also take a closer look at the White House, where many of history's "world-changing decisions have been hidden from view."
Season one will focus on former first ladies including Eleanor Roosevelt, Betty Ford and Michelle Obama.
"Throughout our history, presidents' spouses have wielded remarkable influence, not only on the nation's leaders but on the country itself," Jana Winograde, President of Entertainment, Showtime Networks Inc., said in a statement.
"'First Ladies' fits perfectly within the Showtime wheelhouse of drama and politics, revealing how much personal relationships impact both domestic and global events," her statement continued. "Having Viola Davis play Michelle Obama is a dream come true, and we couldn't be luckier to have her extraordinary talent to help launch this series."
The news comes as Davis is set to say farewell to ABC's Shonda Rhimes-produced drama "How to Get Away with Murder," which will air its final episode in the spring.
