Rachel Brosnahan cast to topline Mark Burnett, Roma Downey's 'The Dovekeepers'

Manhattan star Rachel Brosnahan has been cast to lead the upcoming Mark Burnett and Roma Downey miniseries The Dovekeepers.

The four-hour miniseries is based upon a historical novel written by Alice Hoffman that follows four women who make their way to Masada separately and find themselves having to try and survive the Roman siege against the Jews holding out there in 70 C.E., according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Cote de Pablo was the first to join the series and she will be playing the mysterious and independent Shirah. The locals distrust her and call her the "Witch of Moab" for her strange powers, but still seek out her help.

Rock of Ages actor Diego Boneta was tapped last week to play the role of Amram in the mini.

Brosnahan will portray the young and fearless Yael, who is Amram's sister. Yael's father has always blamed her for the death of her mother, who passed away during childbirth. During her trek to Masada, Yael found herself engaged in a whirlwind romance.

"I really admire Rachel's work and find her to be one of the most exciting young actresses of our time," Downey, who is executive producing, said. "I have no doubt that she will bring courage and dignity to this unique tale."

The Dovekeepers, which Burnett is also executive producing alongside Frank Siracusa, Yves Simoneau and John Weber, will debut in 2015 on CBS.

image courtesy of Walter McBride/INFphoto.com