Emily Browning lands role in Starz series 'American Gods'

BEVERLY HILLS , Calif., March 17 (UPI) -- Australian actress Emily Browning has signed on to play Laura Moon in the small-screen adaptation of Neil Gaiman's contemporary fantasy novel, American Gods, Starz and FreemantleMedia North America announced Thursday.

Starring Ian McShane and Ricky Whittle, the series is to begin shooting in April.

Browning is best known for her work in the films Sucker Punch and Legend.

"I've been fascinated by Emily Browning since A Series of Unfortunate Events," Gaiman remarked. "She has a challenge ahead of her: Laura is a tricky character, and the Laura on the screen is even trickier and more dangerous than the one on the page. She's going to have a wonderful time bringing Laura to life."

"You don't need a magical coin when you have Emily Browning. She brings a fascinating spark of life to every role she inhabits and we are tickled she will be lighting up Laura Moon and bringing her to life in more ways than one on American Gods," showrunners Bryan Fuller and Michael Green said in their own joint statement.