Sky has announced a major new television adaptation of Stieg Larsson's blockbuster novel, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. The project will be an eight-part series, set to begin production this spring, and will be written by Steve Lightfoot and Angela LaManna, with a modern-day setting.
The Legacy of Lisbeth Salander
The central question gripping fans is who will step into the iconic role of hacker and investigator Lisbeth Salander. The part has a formidable legacy, having launched or defined the careers of several acclaimed actors. Noomi Rapace earned a Bafta nomination for her portrayal in the 2009 Swedish film. Rooney Mara secured an Oscar nomination for David Fincher's 2011 Hollywood remake. Most recently, Claire Foy delivered a powerful performance in the 2018 film The Girl in the Spider's Web.
With casting likely already decided ahead of the spring production start, speculation is rife about which actor will next inherit the dragon tattoo.
Top Contenders for the Iconic Role
Emma Corrin emerges as a compelling favourite. Their portrayal of Princess Diana in The Crown demonstrated a unique, otherworldly intensity perfect for Salander. The connection is strengthened by the fact that Left Bank Pictures, the producer behind The Crown, is also making this new series for Sky.
Jodie Comer is another standout candidate. Her formidable range, from the chilling Villanelle in Killing Eve to dramatic roles in Help and 28 Years Later, proves she can master the character's complexity, capability, and detached brilliance.
Anya Taylor-Joy has the capacity for deep, terrifying character immersion, as showcased in The Queen's Gambit. A long-form series would allow her the space to fully interrogate Salander's psyche, moving beyond a supporting film role.
Authenticity and a Wildcard Return
For geographical authenticity, Alba August could be a perfect choice. The Danish-Swedish actor, known for Netflix's The Rain, has long been poised for a major English-language breakthrough and understands the story's Nordic roots.
The most intriguing wildcard suggestion is a return for Noomi Rapace. Given the new series is set in the present day, it could explore an older Lisbeth, now in her mid-forties. This would offer a fascinating study of how the character has evolved with age, though this route is considered unlikely.
Whoever has ultimately won the role faces the daunting task of following in the footsteps of cinematic greats. Yet, the history of the part suggests that the new Lisbeth Salander is bound to deliver a brilliant and career-defining performance.
