Matt Ryan debuts as Constantine in behind-the-scenes peek

Currently in development for NBC and one of three upcoming new shows based on characters from the DC Universe, the brand new Constantine TV series holds a lot of promise for fans looking forward to a genuine interpretation of the occult detective. 

Shooting for the show's pilot has officially begun, and to help promote things, the team behind the show has released the first official shot from behind-the-scenes with actor Matt Ryan dressed in full costume as John Constantine.

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An antihero, Constantine’s mission as a working-class magician and con artist is only tempered by his desire as a humanist to do some good in his life. Modeled after the image and likeness of the musician Sting, Constantine is most recognizable with his blonde hair, beige trench coat and black tie, and the unhealthy habit of chain smoking. He

 

Unlike Keanu Reeves’ loose depiction in the 2005 film which saw the character as an American, the NBC series version of Constantine will remain true to his comic roots as a cynical and cunning British expert of the occult. The character, created by Alan Moore, Steve Bissette, John Totleben, and Jamie Delano, first appeared in June 1985 in the pages of “The Saga of the Swamp Thing #37”, and has since appeared in several DC Comics and Vertigo publications. His stint as a supporting character didn’t last long, as by 1988 he was given his own miniseries in “Hellblazer” where he served as the lead. 

 

While initially existing in Vertigo and away from the DC Universe proper, the character was finally introduced into the DC mythos during the events of “Brightest Day” along with the reintroduction of Swamp Thing. After DC rebooted things with “The New 52” initiative, John Constantine was added to the new comic universe, and serves as a member of “Justice League Dark” while also having his own ongoing comic book series in “Constantine”.

 

From the photo alone, Matt Ryan, who also voiced Edward Kenway in Ubisoft’s fourth installment of the Assassin’s Creed game series “Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag”, looks very comic accurate with his depiction of the character, complete with the dyed blonde hairstyle and trenchcoat. All he needs is a cigarette, and the character looks like he was brought to life from the comics!

 

No release date has been given yet for NBC’s “Constantine” TV Series, but expect some announcements soon, and possibly being released for the 2014-2015 Television season. — TJD, GMA News