A new look at Martin Freeman for his upcoming Christmas horror special has been revealed. Adapted from a story by Charles Dickens and Wilkie Collins, Freeman looks unrecognizable in the project.
BBC Press Office shared the official first look for A Ghost Story for Christmas: The Bride’s Chamber on its X handle. Freeman can be seen sitting in a chair wearing a brown robe with a maroon collar. The actor can be seen with an aged appearance, donning long gray hair and a beard.
According to a Deadline report, Jim Broadbent, Adrian Scarborough, Joe Armstrong, India Fowler, and Lewis Shepherd will also join Freeman.
What else do we know about The Bride’s Chamber with Martin Freeman?
Writer and director Mark Gatiss is returning to the BBC’s annual tradition with the special. The Bride’s Chamber marks Gatiss’ ninth A Ghost Story for Christmas special.
Originally published in 1858, The Bride’s Chamber follows a spurned suitor who manipulates a young woman into marrying him so he can claim her fortune. But his murderous plan ultimately leads to his own downfall.
Gatiss and Freeman are working together again. They previously worked together on the BBC’s series Sherlock. Adorable Media is producing the special. BBC Studios will handle global distribution.
Gatiss said of the project, per Deadline“It’s unusual to find a Dickens rarity, but this is it. A weird and nasty little treasure which lurks within a work co-written with the great Wilkie Collins. A lonely inn, an incognito traveller and a ghastly tale of warped obsession. Merry Christmas!”
The final filming has already concluded. Principal photography took place at Ingatestone Hall in Essex earlier this year, along with other locations. The Bride’s Chamber will air on BBC Two during the Christmas season. It will also be available on BBC iPlayer.