Channel 5 Commissions The Au Pair

Channel 5 has ordered the new drama The Au Pair from Pernel Media and MK1 Studios, in association with ITV Studios.

The Au Pair follows a woman who seems to have it all—a successful husband, adorable stepchildren, a thriving business and a gorgeous home. When her diabetic father moves in next door and she begins to experience marital issues, however, she reluctantly agrees to hire an au pair. A beguiling young French woman takes the job and causes an unsettling shift in the household.

As instincts and suspicions arise, hidden agendas are hinted at and long-concealed truths are unveiled.

The series stars stars Sir David Suchet (Poirot), Sally Bretton (Beyond Paradise, Not Going Out) and Kenny Doughty (Vera, Stella), as well as Ludmilla Makowski (Anthracite, Lupin) in her British television debut.

The four-parter is being written by Michael Foott (Desperate Measures) and Andy Bayliss (The Good Ship Murder) and directed by Oonagh Kearney (Vardy V Rooney). Executive producers are Pernel Media’s Samuel Kissous, MK1’s Julie Ryan and Channel 5’s Sebastian Cardwell and Paul Testar. Cormac Fox (Animals) is a producer.

ITV Studios will be handling worldwide distribution of the series. CANAL+ Group has already rebought the rights in France.

“This is a truly international collaboration, and we’re delighted to be working with Pernel Media for the first time on this gripping new drama,” said Cardwell, deputy chief content officer at Channel 5. “We can’t wait to see this amazing cast bring this thrilling story to life!”

“Pernel Media is very excited to have secured its first English-speaking drama series commission in the U.K. with Channel 5 on such a high-quality series–offering a smart storyline, premium production value and a stellar cast,” commented Kissous, president of Pernel Media. “This series highlights Pernel Media’s ability to bring international partners such as ITV Studios, CANAL+ Group and MK1 Studios together in order to deliver world-class drama.”

Ryan, managing director at MK1, added, “We’re excited to collaborate with Pernel Media and Channel 5 on The Au Pair. This series, centering around a strong female narrative, promises to captivate and intrigue viewers with its exceptional cast. We believe the blend of suspense, emotional depth and stellar performances will make the show a must-watch.”