The Psycho prequel TV series, Bates Motel, is currently filming and we have the first photo of Norman Bates and his mother. Norman is played by Freddie Highmore (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory), while Vera Farmiga (The Departed) has been cast in the role of his mother, Norma.

Other actors that are part of the cast include Max Thieriot, Mike Vogel, Nestor Carbonell, Nicola Peltz and Olivia Cooke. A&E has committed to a 10-episode first season order for the Bates Motel, and it's being developed by Carlton Cuse (Lost showrunner) and Kerry Ehrin. A specific release date has not been set, but the show will premiere in the spring of 2013.

“Bates Motel” serves as a prequel to the most famous fright film of all-time, “Psycho.” A&E is currently in script development. “Bates Motel” will give viewers an intimate understanding of how Norman Bates’ psyche developed from his childhood through his teen years. Fans will have access to the dark, twisted backstory and learn first hand how his mother, Norma, and her lover damaged Norman, helping forge the most well-known serial killing motel owner in history.

Source: EW
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