Succession star Matthew Macfadyen is set to play writer John le Carré's fictional spy George Smiley in a new TV series, Variety has reported. Legacy of Spies is "currently in the works", according to the outlet, adding that Macfadyen would be the latest actor to play the writer's arguably most famous spy "should the series move forward".

A TV series based on the works of John le Carré with Matthew Macfadyen attached to star is heating up the marketplace. Variety has learned that the drama “Legacy of Spies” is currently in the works from producer The Ink Factory and with Fifth Season onboard to distribute.

"Succession" star Matthew Macfadyen is attached to play George Smiley in "Legacy of Spies," a TV series based on author John le Carré's work.

The Succession star has been confirmed to star as George Smiley in the new drama, following in the footsteps of actors like Gary Oldman, Alec Guinness and Rupert Davies, who have all taken on the character in previous adaptations for the screen.

Matthew Macfadyen has been cast in an upcoming adaptation of John Le Carre’s A Legacy of Spies, but while you’re waiting, revisit the classics.

An "A Legacy of Spies" series in development that sees Matthew Macfadyen (Succession) taking on the role of John le Carré’s George Smiley.

Emmy winner Matthew Macfadyen (Succession) is attached to star as George Smiley in Legacy Of Spies, a TV series project based on John le Carré's series of novels featuring the career intelligence officer character.