'Nikita's Noah Bean & 'Damages' Zeljko Ivanek Join '12 Monkeys'

We here at TVRage have been steadily following the development of Syfy's adaptation of the 1995 Terry Gilliam film '12 Monkeys.' First, 'Caprica' helmer Jeffrey Reiner was brought on board to direct the pilot. Then, earlier this month, 'Nikita' star Aaron Stanford was signed on to play lead character James Cole (played by Bruce Willis in the movie), an unlikely time traveler sent back to recover an early sample of the doomsday virus that eventually wiped out most of humanity. Amanda Schull was also cast as Cole's psychiatrist Cassandra, taking over for Madeleine Stowe.

Now, a third regular has been announced, that being fellow 'Nikita' alum Noah Bean. As first reported by Deadline, Bean will play Aaron Marker, a political strategist that finds his relationship with Cassandra being torn apart after Cole's arrival in the past. All Aaron really wants to do is protect the woman he loves, but the more he gets involved, the more he becomes entangled in the conspiracy that eventually brings about the creation of the aforementioned doomsday virus.

Also joining the pilot, in a guest star capacity, is Emmy winner Zeljko Ivanek ('Damages,' 'Heroes,' 'The Event'). Ivanek is set to portray Leland Frost, a high profile venture capitalist and philanthropist that bankrolls groundbreaking biological research. Frost cultivates a charming, upscale image, while secretly harboring a ruthless drive to accomplish his goals at all costs. One has to assume that this research figures into the creation of the virus as well.

I'm still a bit skeptical as to how this story will translate to the weekly drama format, but the casting department definitely knows what it's doing. There's still no word on who will fill Brad Pitt's role from the film, although I'm wondering if this version will even include the Jeffrey Goines character. Producers may just feel that nobody can live up to Pitt's performance. If they do include him, who would you cast?