Thomas Doherty and Emma Laird to Star as Serial Killers in 'Butcher and Blackbird'
The Scottish actors are cast in a new film adaptation of Brynne Weaver's bestselling novel, where their characters engage in an annual murder competition.
Scottish actors Thomas Doherty and Emma Laird are set to star in the upcoming film adaptation of Brynne Weaver's bestselling novel, "Butcher and Blackbird." Doherty will play Rowan Kane, a chef turned vigilante killer, while Laird will portray Sloane Sutherland, an American scientist and fellow serial killer.
The film, based on the "Ruinous Love" trilogy, centers on the dark romance between Kane and Sutherland. Their relationship blossoms through a peculiar annual competition where they target other serial killers. Doherty, known for his role as Harry Hook in Disney's "Descendants," previously portrayed a vampire in "The Invitation" and expressed a fascination with the psychology of murderers, calling the role "good practice."
Doherty, who previously convinced Disney to allow him to use a Scottish accent for his "Descendants" character, is expected by fans to reprise his native brogue for the role of Rowan Kane. This speculation stems from American audio book listeners who perceived the character as Scottish.
Laird, a BAFTA nominee, recently appeared in the BBC drama "Mint," filmed in Glasgow. The series explored the inner life of a crime family and also featured Bafta-winning actor Lewis Gribben and "Breaking Bad" actress Laura Fraser. Despite her Scottish heritage, Laird, who grew up in Cheshire, humorously acknowledged her struggles with a Scottish accent during a previous role.
Production for "Butcher and Blackbird" is scheduled to begin this month in New York and Vancouver. Laird has also had roles in "Mayor Of Kingstown," "A Haunting In Venice," and the Oscar-winning film "The Brutalist."
