`Hitler` actor Bruno Ganz set to play Pope on TV

London: Swiss actor Bruno Ganz- who received worldwide praise for his chilling portrayal of Hitler in 2004 film ` Downfall` - has been roped in to portray Pope in a Ridley Scott -directed television drama.

The 71-year-old star will play the fictional Pope Sixtus VI in `The Vatican,` a show for the American Showtime network, Sky News reported. A pilot episode is currently in production and if it proves successful a full series will be made. Showtime said that Ganz`s character will be of German ancestry. The US network said that the character is an unassuming and introspective caretaker of the Church, who is struggling with his own legacy, and how history will judge his papacy. The show also marks the first time that director Scott has taken charge of a TV pilot. ANI