Robert Downey Jr. Set to Co-Star in HBO's Series Adaptation of THE SYMPATHIZER with Park Chan-wook Directing

Robert Downey Jr. has found a new acting gig as he’s set to co-star in HBO’s series adaptation of Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer-Prizer winning novel The Sympathizer. Oldboy director Park Chan-wook is also involved with the project as co-showrunner along with Don McKellar, and he will also direct the series.

The story is an “espionage thriller and cross-culture satire about the struggles of a half-French, half-Vietnamese communist spy during the final days of the Vietnam War and his resulting exile in the United States. A worldwide search is currently underway for the lead role and the rest of the predominantly Vietnamese ensemble.”

The novel is described as a “blistering exploration of identity and America, a gripping spy novel and a powerful story of love and friendship.” Downey Jr. said in a statement:

“Adapting Mr. Nguyen’s important and masterful work requires a visionary team. With Director Park at the helm, I expect this to be a creative producing adventure for Susan, me and Team Downey, and a stimulating process for myself in playing these complex supporting roles. A24 and HBO are the perfect combination of partners and co-parents… It’s exactly the type of challenge I’ve been craving, and I believe we will deliver an exceptional viewing experience to our audience.”

Producers are now on the hunt to find the title character who will co-star opposite Downey Jr. The actor has only starred in one other project since playing Tony Stark in Avengers: Endgame and that was Dolittle. He been looking at several offers since then, and it’s explained that “what made this role so appealing besides an incredible story, was the opportunity to show his incredible range as an actor.”

It’s also reported that Downey Jr., “is set to play multiple supporting roles as the main antagonists, all of whom represent a different arm of the American establishment — including an up-and-coming Orange County Congressman, a CIA agent and a Hollywood film director, among others.”

Chan-wook and McKellar will also executive produce along with Downey Jr., Susan Downey, and Amanda Burrell for Team Downey.

Source: Deadline