Despite not being known for having scripted series, A&E is following the trend of making prequel television series for classic horror movies by moving forward with their ‘Psycho’ prequel, ‘Bates Motel’. The network has so much confidence in this show that they’ve even put it straight to a 10-episode series order. Previously, they cast Vera Farmiga as Norma Louise, Norman’s mother. Now, the production has found their Norman.
According to Shock Till You Drop, Freddie Highmore has been cast as the teenaged version the iconic serial killing motel owner, Norman Bates. Highmore has been seen in ‘August Rush’, ‘Finding Neverland’, and ‘Arthur and the Invisibles’, but he’s best known for portraying Charlie Bucket in Tim Burton’s adaptation of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’.
From former ‘Lost’ showrunner Carlton Cuse and Kerry Ehrin, ‘Bates Motel’ will explore the relationship between Norman and his mother during his teen years as he grows into the notorious killer from Alfred Hitchcock’s acclaimed cinematic work. This slightly reimagined origin series is expected to debut on A&E some time in 2013.
What do you think of this casting? Do you think Freddie Highmore can pass for a young Anthony Perkins? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
