John Malkovich to Star as Blackbeard on NBC's Crossbones

John Malkovich has been tapped to star as Blackbeard on NBC's upcoming pirate series Crossbones, the network announced Monday.

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NBC ordered a 10episode season of Crossbones last May. Set in 1715 in the Bahamas, the series revolves around the first functioning democracy in the Americas, with Edward Teach (a.k.a. Blackbeard) ruling over a rogue nation of thieves, outlaws and miscreant sailors. It comes from Luther creator Neil Cross and is based on Colin Woodard's book The Republic of Pirates.

Hugh Laurie was previously in negotiations to play the legendary pirate. A premiere date for the series has not been announced.
Do you think Malkovich will make a good Blackbeard?