Michael Douglas has drawn comparisons between Benjamin Franklin and modern-day figures such as Elon Musk and Warren Buffett after portraying the iconic inventor and statesman in a new series titled ‘Franklin.’ The limited series, based on a book by Pulitzer Prize winner Stacy Schiff, explores Franklin’s lesser-known story of convincing France to support America’s experiment in democracy at the age of 70, without any diplomatic training. Douglas sees similarities between Franklin and Musk, noting their intelligence and charm, and also sees a folksy quality in Franklin similar to that of Warren Buffett.
The veteran actor was drawn to the role of Franklin as he wanted to try something new in his career, having never worked on a period piece before. He found the complexity of Franklin’s character appealing, as he has always been attracted to characters with a dark side rather than true heroes. Douglas was intrigued by Franklin’s ability to negotiate and seduce others, as well as his self-learned intelligence and wide-ranging interests, from printing to inventions beyond electricity. However, he also acknowledges Franklin’s shortcomings, particularly in his personal life, as he was not a good husband.
As Douglas delved deeper into Franklin’s life for the series, he gained a new appreciation for the Constitution and democracy, and realized the fragility of these institutions and how close they came to not coming about. He believes that the timing of the series is perfect, especially in an election year, as it serves as a reminder of the importance and preciousness of democracy in today’s world. ‘Franklin’ is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on Friday, April 12th, offering a fresh perspective on one of America’s founding fathers and his role in shaping the nation’s history.
Despite his intelligence and charm, Franklin was also a bit of a rascal, known for his philandering and flirtatious nature. However, he had a knack for identifying people’s weaknesses and using them to his advantage in negotiations, making them feel like his best friend despite having ulterior motives. Douglas found Franklin’s ability to manipulate people fascinating, and sees it as a key element of his success in convincing France to support America during the Revolution. This nuanced portrayal of Franklin adds depth to the character and showcases the complexities of his personality.
Overall, Michael Douglas’s portrayal of Benjamin Franklin in the series ‘Franklin’ sheds light on the lesser-known aspects of the founding father’s life and his pivotal role in securing French support for the American Revolution. Through his exploration of Franklin’s character, Douglas gained a new appreciation for democracy and the fragility of the Constitution, which he believes is particularly relevant in today’s political climate. The series promises to offer a fresh perspective on a key figure in American history, highlighting both his strengths and shortcomings as an individual.
