Macfadyen adapted the Shakespearean tragedy while filming "Turn: Washington's Spies" in Richmond, Virginia. He cast many of his fellow "Turn" actors, such as Taylor Roberts as Lady Macbeth and Kevin McNally as Duncan, and shot on location in Richmond while filming the second season of the AMC television drama. The film also stars Macfadyen's longtime friend and "Titus" costar, Harry Lennix, as Banquo.
Angus MacFadyen (Macbeth) reportedly put on about 50 pounds to help round out the character of Macbeth.