is apparently expecting big things from its upcoming series Preacher, which will premiere next Sunday night. As with its other series based on a popular graphic novel, the network plans to run an live after-show following each episode. The program will be titled Talking Preacher, and like the Talking Dead show that runs after The Walking Dead, this talk show will be hosted by Chris Hardwick.
To make the announcement and build further anticipation for the series, Hardwick released a new trailer for the series on his Instagram page Sunday night.
Produced by Seth Rogen and his creative partner Evan Goldberg, Preacher is based on a comic book series published by DC Comics’ Vertigo imprint from 1995 to 2000. The series follows Jesse Custer (played by Dominic Cooper), a Texas minister having a crisis of faith who suddenly finds himself merged with something called “Genesis,” the unholy spawn of an angel and demon. This gives him the power of “The Word,” which Custer can use to make anyone do exactly what he says. In the comic book, that often led to some literal interpretations, used for comedic effect and shock value. No word on whether or not the TV series will go in that direction.
In addition to Custer, the cast of characters includes his girlfriend Tulip (Ruth Negga), who was once a professional assassin, and Cassidy (Joseph Gilgun), an Irish alcoholic vampire who shares an admiration for comedian Bill Hicks. There’s also Arseface (Ian Colletti), a kid who severely disfigures his face after trying to kill himself like Kurt Cobain did.
Rogen and Goldberg have admitted that they can’t and won’t adapt the comic book storyline exactly, but early reviews — presumably from some who were fans of the series — have been positive, excited that the TV show shares the same dark tone and wicked humor. But the comics were a cult hit and for the TV show to be successful, it will obviously have to appeal to a much wider audience.
Preacher debuts Sunday, May 22 at 10 p.m. ET with a 90-minute premiere episode.
