Franklin (2024)
Michael Douglas stars as Benjamin Franklin in this gripping Apple TV+ miniseries about a secret diplomatic mission that would decide the fate of American independence.
Franklin - Series Information
- Original Title: Franklin
- First Air Year: 2024
- Last Air Year: 2024
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-MA
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 8
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English, French
- First Air Date: April 11, 2024 (United States - TV-MA), April 11, 2024 (Canada - 18+), April 11, 2024 (United Kingdom - 15), April 11, 2024 (Germany - 16), April 11, 2024 (France - 12), April 11, 2024 (India - A), April 11, 2024 (Australia - MA 15+), April 11, 2024 (Brazil - 16), April 11, 2024 (Mexico - B-15), April 11, 2024 (Italy - VM14), April 11, 2024 (Spain - 16), April 11, 2024 (South Korea - 19)
- Networks: Apple TV
- Alternative Titles: Franklin (BR), פרנקלין (IL), 富兰克林 (CN)
- Production Companies: ITV Studios America, EDEN Productions, Flame Ventures, Shadow Catcher Productions, Boil Some Water Entertainment
- Production Countries: United States of America
Franklin - Plot
In December 1776, Benjamin Franklin is world-famous for his electrical experiments. But his passion and power are put to the test when he embarks on a secret mission to France—with the fate of American independence hanging in the balance.
Franklin - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the diplomatic intrigue of revolutionary France come to life:
Diplomacy is a game. America is the prize.
Where to Watch Franklin
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Franklin - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Michael Douglas
- Noah Jupe
- Daniel Mays
- Ludivine Sagnier
- Thibault de Montalembert
- Assaad Bouab
- Théodore Pellerin
- Aïtor de Calvairac
- Lily Dupont
- Arthur Orcier
Writers
- Kirk Ellis
- Howard Korder
Executive Producers
- Mark Mostyn
- Tim Van Patten
- Tony Krantz
- Kirk Ellis
- Richard Plepler
Franklin - FAQs
Is Franklin based on a true story?
Franklin is rooted in real history. Benjamin Franklin's diplomatic mission to France beginning in late 1776 is one of the most consequential episodes of the American Revolution. The series dramatizes his efforts to secure French military and financial support, drawing on documented historical events, real figures, and Franklin's own writings.
Who plays Benjamin Franklin in the series?
Michael Douglas takes on the role of Benjamin Franklin, delivering a performance that captures the statesman's wit, charm, and political cunning. It's a career highlight for Douglas, who also served as an executive producer on the project, bringing both gravitas and surprising warmth to the Founding Father.
Where can you stream Franklin?
Franklin is available to stream on Apple TV+. It's also accessible through the Apple TV Amazon Channel for subscribers who access Apple TV+ via Amazon. The miniseries premiered on April 11, 2024, with all eight episodes available on the platform.
What role does Temple Franklin play in the series?
Temple Franklin, Benjamin's young grandson played by Noah Jupe, serves as both companion and emotional anchor throughout the mission. Their relationship gives the series a personal dimension beyond politics — Temple's coming-of-age arc unfolds against the backdrop of revolutionary intrigue, adding warmth and generational tension to the story.
Is Franklin worth watching?
Absolutely worth your time. Franklin earned strong critical praise for Michael Douglas's commanding central performance and its lush period production. The series blends espionage, diplomacy, and personal drama into a compelling portrait of a Founding Father at his most vulnerable and resourceful — a rare prestige miniseries that rewards patient viewers.
Did Franklin win any awards or nominations?
Michael Douglas received notable award recognition for his portrayal of Benjamin Franklin, earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Limited Series. The series also garnered attention for its production design, costume work, and Jay Wadley's evocative score, cementing its status as one of 2024's prestige television highlights.
Who wrote and produced the Franklin miniseries?
The series was written by Kirk Ellis and Howard Korder, both of whom also served as executive producers alongside Michael Douglas and Richard Plepler. Tim Van Patten, known for his work on The Sopranos and Game of Thrones, directed episodes and executive produced, bringing a seasoned hand to the historical drama.
What are similar shows to Franklin?
If Franklin captivated you, John Adams (2008) offers a companion portrait of another Founding Father navigating European diplomacy. TURN: Washington's Spies (2014) dives into Revolutionary War espionage, while Sons of Liberty (2015) dramatizes the revolution's early sparks. All three share Franklin's blend of historical drama, political intrigue, and period authenticity.
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