*Courtesy of John Nacion/Variety/Getty Images.*

Marisa Abela, known for her breakout role in the critically acclaimed British drama ‘Industry,’ has joined the cast of ‘Highlander,’ Amazon MGM’s upcoming remake of the 1980s cult classic. She will star alongside Henry Cavill and Russell Crowe in what is being described as a major leading role.

Abela recently earned a BAFTA TV Award for her performance in ‘Industry’s’ third season, which has garnered international acclaim. She also delivered a standout turn opposite Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett in Steven Soderbergh’s underrated spy thriller ‘Black Bag,’ released earlier this year to strong critical reviews.

The project is being directed by Chad Stahelski and produced under Amazon MGM’s United Artists banner, with a theatrical release planned.

The original 1986 ‘Highlander’ film starred Christopher Lambert as Connor MacLeod, a Scottish Highlander from the Middle Ages who learns he is one of many immortals fated to battle through the centuries. Sean Connery played Ramirez, a mentor swordsman who helps MacLeod prepare for an epic confrontation.

In the reboot, Cavill takes on the role of MacLeod, with Crowe stepping into the role of Ramirez. The new screenplay, written by Michael Finch, is expanding the mythology by introducing a broader world of immortals from diverse regions and time periods.

Abela will portray a newly created character — an immortal swordplay instructor who shares a romantic history with MacLeod. Sources describe her role as central to the story.

The film is being produced by Scott Stuber and Nick Nesbitt for United Artists, alongside Neal H. Moritz, Stahelski’s 87Eleven Entertainment, Josh Davis of Davis Panzer Productions, and Louise Rosner.

United Artists has acquired full rights to the original ‘Highlander’ film and may explore additional content, including a potential television series. The property was previously in development at Lionsgate for several years before transitioning to UA.

Production is slated to begin in September, with filming locations set in Scotland, England, and Hong Kong.

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