Getting Ready For Primetime

The star of Pure Genius opens up about possibly becoming the next big thing.

- Marisa Roffman

AUGUSTUS PREW HAS been acting professionally for more than 15 years, but he’s about to take his biggest step: a lead role in the new CBS medical drama Pure Genius. The series, created by Jason Katims (Friday Night Lights, Parenthood), follows Silicon Valley billionaire James Bell (Prew), who bankrolls a high-tech hospital with the hopes of treating the most difficult cases imaginable. The British actor shares his journey from becoming enamored with the show’s pilot script to being on the verge of its premiere.

Last season, I did this cool pilot that didn’t get picked up. But it made me realize that some of the best actors around are working in TV. I hadn’t really done American television; I had done a couple of guest spots, but nothing to dedicate six years to.

So this year, I thought, “I’m going to try and book a pilot with fantastic writing. And if I don’t connect with the writing in the first 10 pages, pass.” I just wanted to do something different. James was a fascinating character. He just jumped from the page. And Jason [Katims] is a wonderful man. I auditioned, then a week later I found out I’d booked it. I was the only one who tested—it just clicked. When that happens, you have to go with your gut.