It’s been announced that John Malkovich will star in the world premiere of David Mamet’s new play BITTER WHEAT, which will open in London’s West End this June.

Premiering at the Garrick Theatre, BITTER WHEAT, written and directed by Mamet, is inspired by the story of Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, who was charged in 2018 for sexual harassment and assault.

Academy Award nominee John Malkovich will star in the production as studio head Barney Fein. Malkovich’s film credits include Of Mice and Men, Empire of the Sun and In the Line of Fire. BITTER WHEAT marks Malkovich’s first return to the West End stage in over 30 years. He was most recently involved in UK theatre directing THE GOOD CANARY at the Rose Theatre in Kingston in 2016.

Malkovich is joined in the play by comedian and actress Doon Mackichan as Fein’s assistant Sandra and Ioanna Kimbook in her stage debut. Further casting for the production is still to be announced.

BITTER WHEAT marks the second play by Mamet about Hollywood. His 1988 play SPEED-THE-PLOW (revived in the West End in 2014 with Lindsay Lohan) followed the relationship between a director and a producer. Mamet’s other plays include AMERICAN BUFFALO, OLEANNA and GLENGARRY GLEN ROSS, which next month embarks on a UK tour following its West End revival last year.

The play is directed by Mamet and features design by Christopher Oram and lighting by Neil Austin.

BITTER WHEAT previews at London’s Garrick Theatre from 7th June with press night on 19th June. It will run to 14th September. Tickets are on sale now.