Character Guide and Casting for the Franklin Mini Series

Winning the American War of Independence was one of the greatest achievements of the people of the United States. Benjamin Franklin was one individual who was instrumental in ensuring that America broke free from the sway of the British Empire. Discover more about the main characters of the Franklin miniseries, which is based on his life and accomplishments, in this article. The Franklin miniseries has been launched via Apple TV.

1. Benjamin Franklin, played by Michael Douglas

Michael Douglas as Benjamin Franklin — Credit for image: IMDb

Michael Douglas played Benjamin Franklin in the main part. One of America's founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin is credited with creating binocular lenses. Benjamin Franklin traveled extensively throughout his political career, making lasting relationships wherever he went. In order to better understand his influence on the formation of America, he also penned letters to the individuals he visited, some of which have been saved to this day. Being one among the signatories of the Declaration of Independence makes his influence quite evident.

2. Temple Franklin, played by Noah Jupe

Noah Jupe as Temple Franklin — Credit for image: IMDb

Noah Jupe portrayed Temple Franklin, the grandson of Benjamin Franklin. Born outside of William Franklin's marriage, Temple was William Franklin's son. As a newborn, Temple was placed in foster care; nevertheless, Benjamin Franklin eventually adopted him. Like his grandpa, Temple developed an interest in politics as he got older.When the American Revolution was at its height, he flew to France for peace talks with Britain, accompanied by Benjamin Franklin, who served as his secretary. This particular negotiation led to the creation of the Treaty of Paris in 1738. But Temple was so enthralled by European politics that he decided to go there and permanently give up American politics.

3. John Adams played by Eddie Marsan

Eddie Marsan as John Adams — Picture Credit: Apple TV+Press

Before taking office as the country's second president, John Adams was George Washington's vice president for two years. John Adams, portrayed by Eddie Marsan, was a pivotal figure in the American War of Independence. Benjamin Franklin was included to the Committee of Five by John Adams, who also assembled the group to begin drafting the Declaration of Independence.

4. Edward Bancroft, played by Daniel Mays

Daniel Mays as Edward Bancroft — Credit for image: IMDb

Edward Bancroft worked as a chemist and a doctor. But he was also a double agent for the United States and the United Kingdom. Daniel Mays plays Bancroft in the Franklin series. Edward was a double agent, but his activity was not uncovered until the late 1800s. It's very much a given that the knowledge he would provide to others in his immediate vicinity was incredibly valuable.

5. Madame Brillon, played by Ludivine Sagnier

Ludivine Sagnier as Madame Brillon — Credit for image: IMDb

Ludivine Sagnier portrays Madame Brillon, or Anne Louise Brillon de Jouy. Madam Brillon was a musician and composer from France. When Benjamin Franklin relocated to Paris in 1777 to serve as American ambassador, she got to know him. The Brillons were very erudite and often welcomed Franklin to their gatherings.Based on their correspondence, some people think that Madam Brillon and Benjamin Franklin were still in love when Franklin returned to the United States. The National Archives still has a secure copy of the letters they exchanged.

6. Charles Gravier, played by Thibault de Montalembert

Thibault de Montalembert as Charles Gravier — Credit for image: IMDb

Charles Gravier, portrayed by Thibault de Montalembert, served as France's foreign minister throughout Louis XVI's presidency during the American Revolution. Friendly connections existed between Gravier and Franklin, and Gravier supported Franklin in his fight for American independence and believed that France should support America in her conflict. But at the time, American peace commissioners like John Adams chose to go elsewhere for partners because they did not trust the French.

7. Gilbert du Motier, played by Théodore Pellerin

Théodore Pellerin as Gilbert du Motier — Credit for image: IMDb

Gilbert du Motier was originally a French aristocrat and military commander, and Théodore Pellerin plays him. Despite being of French descent, he offered to enlist in the Continental Army and serve in the American War of Independence under George Washington's command. Following his death in 1834, Gilbert du Motier had his request fulfilled by being buried with soil taken from Bunker Hill, which he and his son had acquired on their last voyage to America.