Houdini & Doyle TCA panel highlights

The cast and creators of Houdini & Doyle appeared before the Television Critics Association (TCA) in Pasadena on Friday, January 15. During a panel discussion they provided new information about the series set to air on FOX this Spring. Here are some highlights:

• Each episode is different. One may be a gothic story and another may be a psychological thriller. 

• Bram Stoker, Nicola Tesla and Thomas Edison appear in episodes. Bram Stoker was a distant cousin of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

• Before filming, the writing staff went to the Magic Castle in Hollywood for a seance.

• Michael Weston (Houdini) "learned the magic on the fly." He said all the escapes were scary.

• The first episode was filmed in a theater where Houdini once performed.

• Stephen Hopkins directed the first two episodes. The producers wanted a "real pro." [You can see all the directors at my new Episode Guide.]

• Constable Adelaide Stratton (Rebecca Liddiard) is based on a real person. She was the first woman to arrest someone.

• Writer/producer David Shore said the stories will feel contemporary and that, "Houdini needs Doyle; Doyle represents hope."

• Writer/producer David Hoselton said Houdini and Doyle's famous falling out isn’t covered, but their rivalry is there in the background from the start. Should the show continue beyond the first season, their increasing tension will become an increasingly larger part of the story.

• Houdini & Doyle is 10 episodes. But David Shore says it's not an event series. "The plan is to do many, many more."

Houdini & Doyle will air on FOX in the U.S., ITV Encore in the UK, and Global TV in Canada.

Photos by Frank Micelotta.

Related:

• Houdini & Doyle - Episode Guide
• FOX releases Houdini & Doyle trailer
• New Houdini & Doyle cast photos