CBS Orders 13-Episode Season of New Frank Spotnitz Drama RANSOM

Variety reports that CBS has given a straight-to-series 13-episode order to producer Frank Spotnitz's new drama series RANSOM. 'Black Sails' actor Luke Roberts is set to star with Spotnitz serving as an executive producer.

According to the report, the series will follow "crisis and hostage negotiator Eric Beaumont (Roberts), whose team is brought in to save lives when no one else can. Eric understands criminals better than they do, and uses his insight into human behavior to resolve the most difficult kidnap and ransom cases. Despite the stakes, Eric refuses to resort to violence, even when confronted by some of the most dangerous criminals in the world. While Eric's considerable powers of manipulation make him the best at what he does professionally, they often complicate his relationships with family, friends and colleagues. Is Eric being himself, or who he needs to be in order to get what he wants? The difference is often hard to tell. The series begins with Eric taking on Maxine Carlson, a new member of the team eager to prove herself. But a dangerous secret from Maxine's past may pose a threat that even the great Eric Beaumont is unable to resolve."

The series is inspired by the professional experiences of crisis negotiator Laurent Combalbert, considered to be among the top negotiators in the world.

Commented Spotnitz, "The world of crisis negotiation is incredibly compelling, as demonstrated by the fascinating real-life cases Laurent Combalbert has negotiated. Laurent has inspired a brilliant and complex character, and you can't help but be moved seeing all the lives he's saved around the world."

Adds Glenn Geller, President, CBS Entertainment, "As CBS continues to program year round, we are always looking for series that can fit seamlessly within our schedule and connect with our viewers. 'Ransom' brings a compelling new approach to a character driven crime drama with a sense of urgency and closure in each episode."

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