Apple is developing a new international spy thriller titled Safe Houses, with Ana de Armas and Jennifer Connelly in talks to lead the series. The project is based on Dan Fesperman’s 2018 novel and marks a significant step for Ana de Armas as her first major television role.
Plot Overview and Character Details
The story is set in the aftermath of the murder of a high-ranking CIA officer in Madrid. It follows Sofia Jimenez, an agent on the run accused of the killing, and Elizabeth Winthrop, the victim’s widow and ambassador. Each woman pursues her own investigation, uncovering a conspiracy that could affect global power dynamics.
Creative Team and Production Details
Safe Houses is created by Gideon Raff, known for his work on Homeland, who will act as both executive producer and showrunner. The series comprises eight episodes and is a co-production between Apple Studios and the independent studio Wiip. Otto Bathurst, director of Peaky Blinders, will direct the initial episodes, while Raff will direct additional parts of the series.
Cast Members and Their Recent Work
Ana de Armas, previously starring in Lionsgate’s Ballerina—a John Wick franchise spin-off—has also joined the upcoming film Sweat directed by J Blakeson. Jennifer Connelly returns to Apple TV+ after featuring in the sci-fi series Dark Matter alongside Joel Edgerton and was recently seen in the blockbuster film Top Gun: Maverick.
Executive Producers and Production Team
The series is executive produced by Gideon Raff and Alexandra Milchan, with Paul Lee and David Flynn overseeing the project for Wiip. Sara Gonzalo serves as a producer, and Dan Fesperman consults as a producer, ensuring the adaptation remains close to the novel’s narrative.
Anticipated Impact and Next Steps
This espionage drama brings together a talented cast and experienced creative team, poised to deliver a gripping international thriller. Finalizing the cast and production will likely position Safe Houses as a key new series for Apple TV+, expanding its portfolio of high-profile, original content in the spy genre.
