In an untitled dramatic series for HBO, Alec Baldwin stars as Joe Byrne, a billionaire real estate developer, celebrated libertine and divorced father, who unexpectedly becomes mayor of New York City when tragedy strikes the incumbent.

Considering that the Emmy-winning actor has been outspoken about his liberal political views and has expressed his own ambition to run for mayor of New York, the role seems like a perfect fit.

Another thing that Baldwin and the colorful character he portrays have in common is their frequent appearances in the tabloids, which probably has something to do with Byrne’s appetite for the ladies and his “dark past.” According to Deadline, the series “explores celebrity and the political landscape in New York City, dark but not as pitch black as House Of Cards.”

In addition to playing the lead, Baldwin is co-executive producing the hourlong show with Cary Brokaw (Closer). It will be a joint venture between his El Dorado Pictures and Universal Television.

Writing the series is the award-winning Wells Tower, best known for Everything Ravaged, Everything Burned. Tower will also serve as an executive producer.

The series is expected to begin filming in September.