‘Netflix’s ‘East of Eden’ Cast Expands as Filming Begins’

Netflix is expanding its cast for the upcoming adaptation of John Steinbeck’s novel, "East of Eden."

The limited series, headlined and executive produced by Florence Pugh, has commenced filming in New Zealand. Joining the ensemble are Tracy Letts, Martha Plimpton, Ciaran Hinds, Joseph Zada, and Joe Anders, who will join Pugh and the previously announced Christopher Abbott, Mike Faist, and Hoon Lee.

Netflix officially greenlit the seven-episode drama in September after securing the rights in a competitive bidding process in 2022. Zoe Kazan, granddaughter of Elia Kazan who directed a 1955 film based on the book, and Jeb Stuart (known for works like "Die Hard" and "Vikings: Valhalla") are co-showrunners, with Kazan handling the adaptation of Steinbeck’s classic.

"East of Eden" delves into the intertwined narratives of the Trask and Hamilton families in California’s Salinas Valley. The series will delve into the multigenerational tale of the Trask family, with a focal point on its complex antihero, Cathy Ames, portrayed by Pugh.

Letts, recognized for his roles in "Little Women" and "Winning Time," takes on the role of Cyrus Trask, the father of Adam and Charles, played by Abbott and Faist, respectively. Plimpton portrays Faye, the proprietor of a brothel in Salinas, while Hinds embodies Samuel Hamilton, the patriarch of the Hamilton family. Zada and Anders depict Adam’s sons, Cal and Aron Trask.

The production of "East of Eden" is a collaboration between Fifth Season and Anonymous Content. Pugh, Kazan, and Stuart serve as executive producers alongside directors Garth Davis, Laure de Clermont-Tonnerre, Antoine Douiahy, and Zack Hayden.

The series promises to bring a fresh perspective to Steinbeck’s timeless tale, with a talented cast and creative team at the helm, making it a highly anticipated project for fans of the novel and television enthusiasts alike.