Hurt joins all-star Merlin TV cast

5:34pm Wednesday 23rd July 2008

John Hurt has joined the cast of the BBC's new fantasy drama Merlin, which promises to enchant children and adults.

Hurt will be the voice of the Great Dragon in the 13-part "rites of passage" story, which begins long before Prince Arthur becomes King.

The series, which kicks off on BBC One in September, brings together a cast of acclaimed British actors including Richard Wilson as Gaius and Anthony Head as King Uther Pendragon.

Heroes star Santiago Cabrera plays Lancelot and Bionic Woman Michelle Ryan is the wicked sorceress Nimueh. Further guest stars include Torchwood's Eve Myles as Mary Collins, Will Mellor as Valiant and Green Wing's Julian Rhind-Tutt as Edwin Muirden.

New faces include Colin Morgan as the young wizard Merlin, Bradley James as the arrogant but brave Prince Arthur, Angel Coulby as Guinevere and Katie McGrath as Morgana.

Julie Gardner, head of drama, BBC Wales said: "In this new version, Merlin and Arthur are young contemporaries for the first time ever, bringing a much loved tale to a whole new generation with a fresh, youthful new look and approach for Saturday nights this Autumn on BBC One.

"I am thrilled to announce John Hurt has just been cast as the voice of the Great Dragon, he is Merlin's mythological mentor and the only dragon left with magic powers.

"It is an absolute privilege to be working with him as he brings real gravity to the series alongside a strong core cast and brilliant guests."

Filming is taking place in Wales and France. And CGI effects are created by The Mill, the Oscar winning visual and special effects team behind the Gladiator and Doctor Who.

Merlin is created and produced by Shine Television - the International Emmy Award-winning production team behind Hex and Sugar Rush.

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