Shooting begins on 1860s-set drama series 'Copper'

TORONTO, Feb. 9 (UPI) -- Production has begun in Canada on "Copper," a crime drama set in 1860s New York, BBC America and Cineflix Studios announced Thursday.

BBC America's first original drama is to debut this summer. Among its executive producers are Tom Fontana, Will Rokos, Barry Levinson, Cineflix Media Co-Chief Executive Officer Glen Salzman and Cineflix Studios President Christina Wayne.

The series stars Tom Weston-Jones as Kevin Corcoran, an "intense, rugged Irish-American cop working the city's notorious Five Points neighborhood," a synopsis said.

The cast also includes Kyle Schmid, Anastasia Griffith, Franka Potente, Ato Essandoh, Kevin Ryan, Dylan Taylor, Ron White and Kiara Glasco.

"'Copper' brings together a team that is truly first class -- it is a gripping and fascinating story being told by some of television's most creative voices," Wayne said in a statement. "We couldn't be more thrilled to have this series be nurtured by the best in the business -- from our award-winning show-runner and creator Tom Fontana to our extraordinary cast and brilliant crew, this project speaks volumes about our commitment to high-quality, scripted fare."

"The 'Copper' production team has assembled a stellar cast and recreated 1860's New York on a massive sound-stage set that can only be described as breathtaking. The artistry of this production together with the brilliant characters and storytelling makes 'Copper' the ideal show to launch BBC America into the world of original scripted dramatic series," said Perry Simon, general manager of channels at BBC Worldwide America.