Benedict Cumberbatch to Star in Melrose Drama for Showtime, Sky

LOS ANGELES/LONDON: Sky Atlantic and Showtime have commissioned the five-part series Melrose, which will be executive produced by and star Benedict Cumberbatch.

David Nicholls (Far From the Madding Crowd, One Day) is writing all five episodes of the TV adaptation based on the acclaimed Patrick Melrose series of semi-autobiographical novels written by Edward St. Aubyn. Melrose tracks the protagonist’s harrowing odyssey from a deeply traumatic childhood through adult substance abuse, and ultimately, toward recovery. Cumberbatch (The Imitation Game, Sherlock) will play Melrose, an aristocratic and funny playboy who struggles to overcome the damage inflicted by an abusive father and a mother who tacitly condoned the behavior.

Melrose will be the first production for the recently formed Two Cities Television, set up by Michael Jackson, a former Channel 4 and IAC executive, and producer Rachael Horovitz (Moneyball, Grey Gardens)—both of whom will serve as executive producers. Cumberbatch and Adam Ackland will executive produce for SunnyMarch Productions. Sky Vision will hold the distribution rights.

Cumberbatch and Ackland said: “We are delighted to be part of this incredible series. We have been huge fans of these books for many years and David Nicholls’ adaptations are extraordinary.”

Nicholls said: “I’ve been a huge admirer of Edward St Aubyn’s novels for years, and can’t wait to bring these dark, witty, brilliant books to the screen. Benedict is the perfect Patrick Melrose.”

Anne Mensah, the head of drama for Sky, said: “Bravery and distinction are core to all original drama on Sky Atlantic. Through anti-hero Patrick Melrose, we will be offering viewers a compelling window into a world of privilege, cruelty and greed—crucially both a disturbing and a funny tale. We are so excited to welcome this amazing story and a huge thank you to Benedict, David and the whole team.”