Eric Johnson has landed the title role in Sci Fi Channel's upcoming series, Flash Gordon.

The 22-hour series is a contemporary take on the popular comic strip franchise. According to The Hollywood Reporter, it will feature Johnson as space traveler Flash Gordon embarking on all-new adventures.

Casting is under way for the other roles, including Flash Gordon's fellow space travelers Dale Arden and Dr. Hans Zarkov.

An August premiere is scheduled for Flash Gordon; Peter Hume wrote the first two episodes, which will be directed by Rick Rosenthal. Production is to begin May 1 in Vancouver.