Netflix has officially unveiled The Roman as the name of its highly anticipated Las Vegas-set drama series headlined by Oscar Isaac. The streaming platform has also confirmed three additional series regulars who will be joining the project: Betty Gilpin, best known for her work on GLOW; Alec Baldwin, recognized for his roles in various acclaimed films; and David Costabile, a familiar face from Billions. This casting news marks another significant milestone for the upcoming series, which continues to generate substantial buzz within the entertainment industry.
Betty Gilpin has been cast as Marla Blake, a character described as the formidable spouse of Isaac’s Bobby Red. Marla is portrayed as an exceptionally brilliant and well-connected legal professional who possesses an intimate understanding of Las Vegas’s shadowy underbelly. Her strategic acumen and navigation skills through the city’s most dangerous corridors mirror those of her powerful husband, suggesting a dynamic partnership that will be central to the series’ narrative.
Alec Baldwin takes on the role of Paul “Primo” Clark, depicted as a legendary business technician whose sharp gaze has witnessed decades of industry evolution. As the longtime chairman of the organization, Baldwin’s character serves as a father figure to Bobby Red. However, his paternal approach comes with a challenging twist—he freely encourages his protégés to compete vigorously for his approval and favor, creating a complex power dynamic within the show’s hierarchy.
David Costabile assumes the character of Bill Saverick, the operator of a competing casino establishment. Saverick is characterized as a longstanding associate of Bobby Red who frequently finds himself trapped between maintaining loyalty to his friend and becoming a victim of Las Vegas ruthless business tactics. This internal conflict positions Costabile’s character as someone perpetually navigating treacherous waters in the high-stakes casino industry.
The series is the creation of Brian Koppelman and David Levien, the acclaimed writing and producing duo behind Billions and Super Pumped. Both individuals are also serving as showrunners and executive producers on The Roman, bringing their established expertise in crafting compelling dramatic narratives to this new project. The show is positioned as an hour-long drama set against the backdrop of contemporary Las Vegas, presenting what is described as a modernized yet still perilous incarnation of the legendary entertainment capital.
At the center of The Roman stands Robert “Bobby” Redman, portrayed by Oscar Isaac, who serves as president of the most sought-after hotel casino property in the city. The character faces mounting pressure to make potentially risky decisions that could either secure his position at the top or cause him to lose everything he has built. This premise suggests a narrative rich with tension, ambition, and the constant threat of downfall that defines the casino world’s high-stakes environment.
The executive production team includes several notable industry figures beyond Koppelman and Levien. Oscar Isaac himself is serving as an executive producer alongside the creative duo. Martin Scorsese and his Sikelia Productions company are involved, as are Julie Yorn and Rick Yorn representing Expanded Media. Paul Schiff and Beth Schacter are also aboard as executive producers. JC Chandor has joined the project in a dual capacity as executive producer and director of the first two episodes, while Kerry Orent serves as co-executive producer.
Betty Gilpin brings considerable credentials to the project as a three-time Emmy nominee. Her career highlights include leading roles in the series GLOW and the film The Hunt. Some of her recent credited works include Death by Lightning, Hal & Harper, American Primeval, Three Women, and Mrs. Davis. Looking ahead, Gilpin is scheduled to appear in Netflix’s Office Romance, Ron Howard’s Alone at Dawn, Aaron Sorkin’s The Social Reckoning, the second season of FX’s The Lowdown, and additional projects to be announced. Her representation includes CAA, Anonymous Content, and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller.
Alec Baldwin’s extensive filmography encompasses recognized classics including Glengarry Glen Ross and The Departed. His upcoming project is the crime thriller Kockroach, directed by Matt Ross, where he will star alongside Taran Egerton, Zazie Beetz, and Chris Hemsworth. Baldwin is represented by UTA and manager Matt DelPiano.
David Costabile has built a reputation through memorable performances in series such as Billions and Breaking Bad, along with film work including Lincoln. More recently, audiences have seen him on Chicago Med and Billions. His upcoming projects include the third season of Percy Jackson and the Olympians at Disney+. Costabile is represented by Verve and Gartner Group Entertainment.
