Title: Michael Douglas Says Benjamin Franklin Would Be “Highly Disappointed” with America Today
In a new Apple TV+ miniseries, actor and producer Michael Douglas takes on the role of legendary scientist and Founding Father Benjamin Franklin. During a press conference in Cannes, France, Douglas expressed his belief that Franklin would be “highly disappointed” with the state of the country today.
“The show was a great reminder for me about how fragile democracy is,” Douglas told Variety Magazine. “And I think that Ben would be highly, highly disappointed in the distortion of either a republic or democracy that the United States has become. I hope that this upcoming election will be a cathartic experience for the United States and turn the page onto a new chapter.”
The “Franklin” series, based on Pulitzer Prize-winner Stacy Schiff’s novel, “A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America,” highlights the crucial link between Franklin and France during the American Revolution. Douglas emphasized the importance of France’s assistance in helping America achieve independence from Britain.
“Diplomats and historians still regard it as the greatest single tour of duty by an ambassador in our nation’s history,” a press release from Apple TV+ stated.
During the press conference, Douglas expressed his gratitude for France’s support and the positive production experience while filming the series in the country.
“I know for myself and a lot of the producers involved, the least we could do is come back and say ‘Thank you, France,’” he said. “Thank you first for saving America — reminding everybody of that story and how important the role France played — and thank you for just a wonderful, wonderful production experience.”
As the “Franklin” series prepares to debut on Apple TV+, Douglas’s portrayal of Benjamin Franklin sheds light on the complex faith and remarkable intellect of one of America’s most iconic historical figures. The actor’s insights into Franklin’s potential disappointment with the current state of the nation add a poignant layer to the miniseries.
The series serves as a timely reminder of the values and principles that the Founding Fathers fought for, and Douglas’s portrayal of Franklin offers a compelling look at the man behind the legend.
