First Look: Adrien Brody Stars as Harry Houdini

This Labor Day the History Channel will be airing the four-hour miniseries Houdini, produced by Lionsgate and A&E Studios, based on the magician Harry Houdini’s life from desperate poverty to worldwide fame.

Academy Award winner Adrien Brody (The Pianist) will be portraying The Great Houdini as he finds fame, engages in espionage, battles spiritualists and encounters the greatest names of the era, from U.S. presidents to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Grigori Rasputin.

The drama will chronicle the life of the acclaimed performer who could defy death through his stunts, visions and mastery of illusion.

“It’s not magic that History has established a strong track record with its high-quality historical dramas from quality auspices. We’re excited to build on that tremendous momentum with Houdini,” said Dirk Hoogstra, in August of 2013 announcing the project. “The Great Harry Houdini is a fascinating man in history and I have no doubt that Adrien Brody will bring the magician’s riveting story to life for our audience.”

“Since my childhood, when I dreamed of being a great magician, Harry Houdini has been one of my heroes,” said Brody about playing the famous escape artist. “His bravery and obsessive determination still fascinate me. Houdini mastered the art of escape — not only from physical chains, but from poverty and the social constraints of a humble immigrant origin. His life story appeals to the universal longing for acceptance with which we all can identify. To portray him is beyond an honor.”

House of Cards’ Kristen Connolly will play Bess and Evan Jones will play Jim Collins, Houdini’s assistant.

The two-night event begins September 1 at 9ET/8ct.