TORONTO – CBC has acquired a new six-episode, Canadian-produced original drama that will transport viewers to 1963 as the U.S. government launches a covert space mission sending hundreds of men, women and children on a century-long voyage to populate a new world.
A co-production of Lionsgate and Sea to Sky Studios, in association with Quebec-based Lift Off Productions and Blumhouse Productions, Ascension began production this week in Montreal, with an official premiere on CBC scheduled for November 2014. The sci-fi drama was originally commissioned by by American television network Syfy.
The series stars Brian Van Holt (Cougar Town, The Bridge) and Tricia Helfer (Battlestar Galatica, The Firm). In addition to Helfer, the cast features a number of Canadian actors including Jacqueline Byers (90 Days, Scared Stiff) and Andrea Roth (Rescue Me, Ringer). Wendy Crewson (Revenge, Saving Hope), Ryan Robbins (Sanctuary, Apollo 18) and John Ralston (Bomb Girls, Life with Derek) are currently set to guest star. Other lead cast members include Brandon P. Bell (Hollywood Heights, Mission Impossible III) and Tiffany Lonsdale (G.I Jane: Retaliation), who will also star alongside Van Holt and Helfer.
“We’re so pleased to be adding Ascension to our roster of superb programming this fall,” said Sally Catto, general manager of programming for CBC Television, in the news release. “Adding this futuristic drama series will complement our overall schedule nicely and will undoubtedly draw a strong audience with its compelling and unusual plot line.”
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