American actor John Hawkes has joined the cast of Prime Video’s highly anticipated graphic novel series, ‘Criminal,’ in a recurring role, according to Deadline. He joins a star-studded lineup that includes Charlie Hunnam, Adria Arjona, Richard Jenkins, Kadeem Hardison, Logan Browning, Pat Healy, and Taylor Sele.
‘Criminal’ is based on the Eisner Award-winning graphic novel series by Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. The series promises to explore an interconnected world of gripping criminal stories. Hawkes will portray Sebastian Hyde, a formidable character recovering from a stroke who now walks with a cane. Hyde, once the most feared figure in his domain, now shows unexpected signs of compassion. As the owner of a gambling club, his unpredictable nature makes him a terrifying presence—pleasing someone one moment and ruthlessly enforcing his will the next.
The series will be directed by Ryan Fleck and Anna Boden, who are confirmed to helm the first four episodes. Ed Brubaker, the creator of the original graphic novel, will co-showrun with crime fiction author Jordan Harper. They will also serve as executive producers alongside Sean Phillips, Sarah Carbiener, and Philipp Barnett. Legendary Television and Amazon MGM Studios are producing the series.
John Hawkes is currently featured in the fourth season of Issa López’s ‘True Detective,’ where he stars alongside Jodie Foster. In addition to his acting prowess, Hawkes has also showcased his musical talents, writing and performing an original song for the show. His notable past works include the independent film ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon,’ Nicholas Winding Refn’s crime drama ‘Too Old to Die Young,’ the ‘Deadwood’ reunion film where he reprised his role as Sol Star, and the critically acclaimed ‘Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.’
Hawkes has received numerous accolades throughout his career, including a Best Actor award at the Independent Spirit Awards for his portrayal of poet Mark O’Brien in ‘The Sessions,’ which also earned him Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild nominations. He was nominated for an Academy Award and received an Independent Spirit Award for his supporting role in ‘Winter’s Bone.’
In addition to acting, Hawkes has written and performed music for various films and TV shows. He co-wrote a song with producer T-Bone Burnett for ‘The Peanut Butter Falcon,’ contributed to the ‘Winter’s Bone’ soundtrack with his song ‘Bred and Buttered,’ and composed and performed ‘Down with Mary’ for the film ‘Too Late.’
‘Criminal’ is set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video, offering audiences a captivating dive into the dark and intricate world of crime, brought to life by an exceptional cast and creative team.
