Alan Cumming Cast Alongside James Franco in ‘Maladies’

It’s been a busy year for Alan Cumming. The 45-year-old star of The Good Wife landed a role in Burlesque and SyFy’s Riverworld. He’ll appear on the silver screen as Sebastian in this weekend’s opening of The Tempest. But next up is a part in the forthcoming drama, Maladies, starring James Franco.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Scottish-born Cumming will also play opposite Claire Danes and Catherine Keener. The film tells the story of a young actor (played by Franco) who walks away from a thriving career upon suspecting a mental illness coming on. No release date has been confirmed.

“[Maladies] is really fascinating, directed by this guy Carter who is the artist that James [Franco] has been collaborating with,” Cumming said. “I’m just doing a little part … and just for Christmas.”

Cumming also chatted about playing a transvestite named Desrae on the British TV series, The Runaway. The show is based on British crime author Martina Cole‘s 1997 novel of the same title and will debut in Sky1 in the UK next spring.

“I have a new found respect for women in terms of what they have to go through. The labors of everyday,” Cumming said. “It was very interesting, just on so many levels. Having to get all the hair removed from my body, you can’t open your legs. Try getting out of a car without opening your legs, boys! Even bras are itchy. My hat was off to girls.”

I think that about covers it, Alan. We appreciate your understanding.