Susan Sarandon is in talks to join the feature version of iconic 1960s TV series The Big Valley.
The Hollywood Reporter says Sarandon is looking to step into the part of Victoria Barkley, a role originated by Barbara Stanwyck. Kate Edelman Johnson, whose late father Louis F. Edelman was a co-creator of the TV series, is producing the feature.
The Big Valley, which ran from 1965-1969 on ABC, centered on the Barkley clan, a wealthy ranching family in the 1870s San Joaquin Valley. It marked the debuts of such stars as Lee Majors and Linda Evans. Richard Long and Peter Breck also starred.
Edelman Johnson’s producing partner Daniel Adams wrote the feature screenplay and will direct. Johnson and Adams’ Panther Entertainment will produce.
A May start date is planned for principal photography in Michigan and New Mexico.
Fox, which distributes the TV show on DVD, has first option on the North American distribution rights for the film, notes THR. Arclight Films is selling the film internationally.
