Freddie Highmore, beloved for his emotionally rich performances in The Good Doctor and Bates Motel, is stepping into an entirely new world — and this time, it’s one built on art, mystery, and Renaissance brilliance. In a bold and exciting career move, Highmore has joined the cast of Leonardo, a Netflix historical drama set in 15th-century Italy, and much of it is being filmed in the cinematic heart of Rome.
Netflix and the production team have kept Highmore’s role under tight wraps, sparking fan speculation. Will he portray a rival artist? A Medici patron? Perhaps a troubled apprentice drawn into da Vinci’s inner circle? What we do know is that his character will be central to the show’s emotional core. Freddie Highmore has a gift for portraying characters wrestling with internal demons — and in a series that explores the burden of genius, forbidden love, and Renaissance politics, that talent will surely be put to compelling use.
While the cast is stellar and the writing sharp, the real scene-stealer might just be Rome itself. From ancient ruins to Renaissance palaces, every frame of the series promises to be soaked in Italian beauty. Cinecittà Studios, once home to Ben-Hur and Roman Holiday, is now alive again with candle-lit corridors and brushstrokes of da Vinci’s world. This isn’t just a set — it’s a fully immersive world. Highmore, who has filmed in cities like Vancouver, London, and Los Angeles, now gets to work amidst the echoes of Michelangelo and Bernini. For an actor as intellectually curious as he is artistically talented, this is more than just a job — it’s an experience.
Since news of his casting broke, fans across Europe and the U.S. have been buzzing with excitement. Social media has lit up with praise for the unexpected — but entirely welcomed — casting. Some have even speculated whether this could open the door to other historical roles for Highmore, including future biopics or European period dramas. Reports from the Roman set suggest that Highmore has already embraced la dolce vita. Between filming scenes in candle-lit chapels and Renaissance workshops, he’s been spotted sipping espresso in Trastevere and visiting the Vatican Museums. He’s not just acting in Italy — he’s living it.
Leonardo is being co-produced by Lux Vide (known for Medici) and The Alliance, a collaboration between European broadcasters and Netflix. The show’s writers, Frank Spotnitz (The Man in the High Castle) and Steve Thompson (Sherlock), promise a drama that’s both historically insightful and emotionally explosive. Adding Freddie Highmore to the mix brings something more: international accessibility. While the series will feature an ensemble of European talent, Highmore bridges the gap between European art and global streaming audiences. His presence guarantees the series will attract not just history buffs, but drama lovers from all corners of the world.
