Anna Friel signs up for exciting new series with Line of Duty star
The Marcella star will lead the cast in The Heights - a six-part series based on Louise Candlish’s 2021 novel of the same name.
Anna Friel is to team up with Line of Duty star Mark Stobbart in a new London-based Channel 5 thriller series.
The Marcella star will lead the cast in The Heights - a six-part series based on Louise Candlish’s 2021 novel of the same name.
She will play working mum Ellen in the series, with a synopsis reading: “When her teenage son Lucas, played by newcomer Kit Redding, brings new friend Kieran home, cracks began to appear in Ellen’s family life.
"Kieran is rude, reckless and manipulative – leading Lucas astray, wasting his promise. As Lucas falls deeper under Kieran’s influence, Ellen becomes increasingly desperate to protect him — but a devastating tragedy leaves her consumed by grief, rage and a growing obsession with the truth.”
Kieran will be played by Peaky Blinders star Conrad Khan.
In a statement, Anna said of the new role: “Really excited to be diving into this world, to work with our brilliant director Dominic (Leclerc) and wonderful crew.
“We have such a strong creative team, and I hope we make something moving and entertaining."
While author Candlish added: “I couldn’t be happier to see The Heights adapted for 5 by the brilliant team at Clapperboard.
“Anna Friel is one of the finest acting talents of our generation and for her to be headlining as Ellen is truly a thrill.”
Simon Tyrrell takes the helm of the programme as writer, with the show currently being filmed and expected to air on 5 later this year.
Prentiss Fraser, President of FOX Entertainment Global, said: “The Heights is exactly the kind of premium, emotionally gripping storytelling that resonates with audiences around the world.
“With Louise Candlish’s compelling novel, a standout creative team at Clapperboard Studios, and Anna Friel delivering a powerhouse lead performance, we’re proud to work with 5 on this exceptional series."
Other familiar faces making an appearance in the series include Stephen Tompkinson from DCI Banks, Joy’s Yasmin Odofin, Double Blind star Diamuid Noyes and Law and Order: Special Victims Unit's Jolly Abraham.
As well as starring as detective Marcella Backland in Marcella on ITV from 2016 to 2020, Anna’s other recent small screen roles include The Box, Monarch and What to Do When Someone Dies.
