Oscar-winning actor Benicio Del Toro has joined Ben Stiller for an upcoming Apple TV comedy called 'Protective Custody,' marking his debut as the lead of a television comedy series. The casting reunites the two performers following their critically acclaimed work on the Showtime limited series 'Escape at Dannemora,' which earned both Emmy nominations. Del Toro, a three-time Academy Award nominee with a supporting actor win for 'Traffic,' brings considerable prestige to the production.

The series centres on Stiller's character—a disgraced investment professional placed in protective custody whilst awaiting trial on fraud accusations—who must navigate complex prison relationships and attempt to salvage his reputation amid legal jeopardy. The show's creative team includes director and co-writer Mike Judge alongside writers Steve Hely and Dave King, supported by established production companies and multiple executive producers, with production beginning under the Apple TV banner.