Kelsey Grammer is best known for his role as prim and proper Dr Frasier Crane on the hit series "Cheers" and "Frasier," but sank his teeth into his latest, more villainous role.
Grammer will play King Herod the Great in the upcoming miniseries "Killing Jesus," and said that he was aware of his character's disturbing notoriety.
"Herod is the guy that killed the kids - that's what I remember from Sunday School," the actor told reporters during a press tour in Pasadena.
Grammer was referring to the "Massacre of the Innocents," recorded in the New Testament.
According to scripture, when Herod learned of the birth of Jesus, he ordered all boys in Bethlehem under the age of two be executed. Jesus and his parents fled to Egypt, and remained there until Herod's death.
Grammer put the king's actions in perspective, saying that Herod "wasn't necessarily evil - he was just a guy who had to do some despicable things to maintain a balance of power," LA Times reports.
"Killing Jesus" writer-producer Walon Green said that the miniseries will immerse viewers in the biblical period.
"This is a story that really places the man in his times," he explained.
The series is based on the best-selling book by television host Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard, and stars Haaz Sleiman as Jesus and Stephen Moyer as Pontius Pilate. "Exodus: Gods and Kings" director Ridley Scott is one of the executive producers.
The four-hour event will depict the life and death of Jesus, and will air on the National Geographic Channel this year.
Grammer expressed confidence that Christians will enjoy the film.
"I think they find increased modern relevance is desirable," he said.
