Scarlett Johansson to play ruthless social climber in Edith Wharton miniseries

Scarlett Johansson is heading to television – at least temporarily.

The A-list movie star is set to play beautiful, ruthless social climber Undine Spragg in a forthcoming eight-episode TV series adaptation of Edith Wharton's classic 1913 novel “The Custom of the Country,” according to Deadline. Johansson is also an executive-producer on the project, which is being adapted by Oscar-winning screenwriter Christopher Hampton (“Dangerous Liaisons,” “Atonement”) from a prospective feature-film version he penned nearly 20 years ago. The show is being eyed for a run on cable, though no network is yet on board.

Set against the backdrop of early 20th century New York, “The Custom of the Country” follows Spragg as she ruthlessly ascends the ladder of high society after arriving in the city with her nouveau-riche parents in tow. It was Wharton's ninth novel.

Johansson has had a big year, starring in both the blockbuster sequel “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” and “Lucy,” the Luc Besson-directed actioner that grossed over $400 million worldwide and cemented Johansson's status as one of the biggest box-office draws in Hollywood.

Do you think Johansson is the right choice for Undine, Edith Wharton fans? Let us know in the comments.

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