Dennis Haysbert starts work on BBC political drama 'Undercover'

LONDON, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- Dennis Haysbert is to star in Undercover, a six-part, political thriller scheduled to premiere on BBC America and BBC One in 2016.

The series is currently filming in Louisiana and the United Kingdom. Wednesday marked Haysbert's first day on the set. He is playing Rudy Jones, a man who has been on death row for 20 years, falsely imprisoned for murder.

"Maya [played by Sophie Okonedo] can only watch as her dearest friend and client refuses to go quietly, urging her to fight the deep-grained injustices that have tainted two decades of his life. Truths will emerge and Maya and her husband Nick's [played by Adrian Lester] lives will change forever," a synopsis said.

Undercover was created by acclaimed writer Peter Moffat and is executive produced by Hilary Salmon, head of BBC Drama Production England for BBC One and BBC America. The show is being directed by James Hawes and Jim O'Hanlon, with Richard Stokes producing.

Haysbert, 61, is best known for his portrayal of President David Palmer on 24. His film credits include Major League, Navy Seals and Far From Heaven. He also appears in commercials for Allstate Insurance. He recently signed on to star in the pilot for Syfy's Incorporated, as well.