CHARLES Dance takes on a whole new challenge in the BBC’s latest historical docu-drama, Renaissance: The Blood and The Beauty.

Known for playing Commander Lord Mountbatten in The Crownthe actor looks unrecognizable in his new role as the older version of Michelangelo.

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Gone are his impeccable suits and close-cropped haircuts.

CharlesThe 77-year-old can be seen wearing period costumes while depicting the legendary artist in his later years.

The actor also grew his hair out and grew a beard for the new role.

This BBC-PBS co-production plans to explore the tumultuous world of Renaissance Italy.

The exhibition takes place during a time when art and political intrigue collide to create some of the greatest masterpieces in Western history.

Over the course of three episodes, viewers will gain insight into the lives of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael.

The three artists’ rivalries and collaborations fueled a 50-year creative explosion that forever changed the face of art.

Renaissance: The Blood and The Beauty will examine how masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and the David were born in a time of violence and upheaval.

Contemporary artists Antony Gormley, Alison Lapper and David LaChapelle will also appear on the show to offer their perspectives.

The series centers around Michelangelo’s final years as he reflects on the triumphs and struggles of his life during a period marked by war, political upheaval and personal rivalries.

BBC Arts Commissions Editor Alistair Pegg shared some thoughts on the new project, saying: “We are delighted to offer a new perspective on the Renaissance, as this series explores how some of the most Western art’s most famous emerged from a dark time of war and political turmoil. »

Executive producer Alexander Leith added: “The Renaissance is a pivotal moment in art history, and we are thrilled to have been able to bring it to life in such an engaging way – and tell the true story behind some of the Western works. the best known and most famous works of art in the world.