Ryan Murphy has returned to dazzle audiences with a fresh series!
The Shards marks Murphy’s newest endeavor, transforming the famed thriller penned by Bret Easton Ellis into a gripping television narrative. Airing on FX, this series delves into a semi-autobiographical narrative drawn from Ellis’ youth during the early 1980s, centering on his experiences at an exclusive private school in Los Angeles.
Fans of Ellis’ literary creations know well to expect the unexpected. Known for crafting tales like American Psycho, Ellis delivers his trademark mysterious twists. The calm of Bret’s world is shattered with the entrance of a charismatic new student, Robert. Quickly a magnet for popularity, Robert raises suspicions when circumstances hint he might actually be The Trawler, a menacing figure roaming Los Angeles with a trail of female victims.
This show seems tailor-made for Murphy’s flair. It seamlessly fuses his iconic campy style with a nostalgic ’80s vibe. Judging by early impressions, The Shards is on track to be an immense success for FX.
Bringing a host of known talents, DECIDER has taken the liberty to spotlight the standout faces you’ll spot throughout this intriguing new series.
Starring in the lead role as the fictional version of the critically-acclaimed author, Igby Rigney plays the ambitious protagonist. Bret dreams of being a writer, but has some doubts about his future. When he suspects Robert is The Trawler, he is forced to confront who he truly is and what the future may bring.
Rigney starred in Midnight Mass and The Fall of the House of Usher.
Want to learn more? Follow Igby Rigney on Instagram @igby.rigney.
Nepo alert! If you can’t place where you’ve seen Homer Gere’s face, it’s because he’s the son of Richard Gere. In the show, Gere plays Robert, the mysterious new student. Gere gets to show off his acting chops as he plays the complex, popular guy who infiltrates Bret’s life.
This is Gere’s first major role, but he appeared in four episodes of Euphoria season 3.
Graham Campbell plays the pivotal role of Thom Wright, the charming and practically perfect high school boy. Wright seems to have the dream life: popularity, a girlfriend, and the world in the palm of his hand. Wright’s life will change when Robert’s arrival threatens to destroy his high school bubble.
Campbell is making a name for himself, previously starring in the Willem Dafoe-led independent film Late Fame.
Want to learn more? Follow Graham Campbell on Instagram @grahamedwardcampbell.
Kaia Gerber is following her mother Cindy Crawford’s footsteps. In this project, Gerber gets to play Susan Reynolds, the most popular cheerleader in the entire school. Everything is perfect for Reynolds, until Robert’s presence changes her entire world.
Gerber has had supporting roles in Bottoms and Babylon.
Want to learn more? Follow Kaia Gerber on Instagram @kaiagerber.
Hayes Warner plays Debbie Schaffer, Susan’s best friend wants more for herself. Schaffer feels trapped by her romantic relationship with Bret and best friend status with Susan. Schaffer will go on a journey of finding the freedom she’s been missing all her life.
Warner is known for her music career as a pop star. This is her first foray into the world of acting!
Want to learn more? Follow Hayes Warner on Instagram @hayeswarner.
Wes Bentley gets to inhabit the role of Terry Schaffer, Debbie’s father. Schaffer is quite the intimidating character, a Hollywood movie producer who oozes with danger and power in 1980s Los Angeles.
Bentley rose to fame with his role in American Beauty and went on to star in The Hunger Games.
Evan Rachel Wood is gracing our screens once again? Rachel Wood is making her return to TV playing Liz Schaffer, Terry’s wife and Debbie’s mother, who once longed to be famous. Now, Schaffer lives a miserable life, constantly trying to one up her husband and daughter.
Rachel Wood starred in the iconic HBO series Westworld and the brilliant miniseries Mildred Pierce.
Want to learn more? Follow Evan Rachel Wood on Instagram @evanrachelwood.
Jordan Roth as Steven Reinhardt
Jordan Roth plays Steven Reinhardt, Terry’s extremely secretive assistant. Reinhardt enjoys hearing the truth behind the glitz and the glamour of Los Angeles, and is always taking note of everyones’ secrets.
Roth is a Tony-nominated Broadway producer making his acting debut!
Want to learn more? Follow Jordan Roth on Instagram @jordan_roth.