New BBC One Drama in the Works from Paul Abbott

LONDON: John Simm and Jim Broadbent are leading the cast of a new three-part drama for BBC One, Exile, created by Paul Abbott and written by Danny Brocklehurst.

Exile is a psychological thriller that tells the story of prodigal redemption. It centers on Tom (Simm), who returns to his hometown to be reacquainted with his father Sam (Broadbent), who Tom had idolized as a child. His father now has Alzheimer’s and is being cared for by his younger sister Nancy (Olivia Coleman). Exile is set to air on BBC One next year. The project will be directed by John Alexander, produced by Karen Lewis and executive produced by Nicola Shindler and Paul Abbott.

Simm commented: "Danny’s written a great script, it’s a wonderful cast, and I can’t wait to start work."

Ben Stephenson, controller of BBC drama commissioning, said: "Exile is a unique opportunity for the BBC to work with the brilliant Paul Abbott again. This intimate portrayal of a father and son’s relationship played by John Simm and Jim Broadbent has been beautifully written by Danny Brocklehurst—a moving and shocking script that will be a real treat for BBC One viewers."

Paul Abbott added: "Creating the series came from looking at the effect events have on families—and how that changes lives forever. Working with John (Simm) again is always a pleasure, he does seem to have turned into a muse of mine, and I’m delighted that we have the calibre of Jim (Broadbent) alongside him. AbbottVision working with Nicola Shindler and Red Production Company again is a thrilling partnership."

He continued: "We’ve made some pretty impressive and successful work together in the past—Clocking Off and Linda Green. There are very few British executives to match her intelligence and standards for producing top-notch screen drama. And of course it’s great having writer Danny Brocklehurst on board. We haven’t worked together since he joined us on the Shameless team."

Nicola Shindler remarked: "Exile is a hugely exciting project to be making for BBC One. The combination of intense thriller and beautifully observed family relationships and the chance to work with two of Britain’s best actors is a rare opportunity."