William Hurt to Star in BBC Movie About Challenger Shuttle Disaster

The tragedy of the January 28, 1986 destruction of the United States space shuttle Challenger is engrained in the minds of millions worldwide as evidenced by the recent announcement that the United Kingdom's BBC Two has joined together with the Science Channel to produce a new movie on the investigation into the cause of the disaster that mesmerized the world on that sad day.

Embarking on a much-discussed adventure into space that included taking civilian teacher Christa McAuliffe on board as part of the crew, Challenger shocked all when it exploded just 73 seconds after lift off. A presidential commission was soon engaged in trying to discover the reason for the explosion. It is this quest and specifically the determination of one scientist to find out the truth that the new TV movie focuses on. Indeed, the story is told from this man's point of view.

Playing scientist Richard Feynman will be William Hurt. Also starring in the production is Bruce Greenwood, Brian Dennehy, and Joanne Whalley.

Previously, a 1990 TV movie called Challenger aired with Karen Allen starring as Christa McAuliffe. That cast also featured Barry Bostwick, Angela Bassett, and Brian Kerwin. Feynman's name was not used in that movie.

The new movie with Hurt is as yet untitled and will air on BBC Two in 2013. No release date has been announced for America.