New Jack Thorne Drama for Channel 4, Hulu

BAFTA winner Jack Thorne (National Treasure) is back with a new drama for Channel 4: Kiri (working title).

The four-part serial drama examines the abduction and death of a young black girl, named Kiri, who is soon to be adopted by her white foster family, and the trail of lies, blame, guilt and notoriety that follows. Kiri will begin shooting later this year to air on Channel 4 in 2018. The 4×1-hour drama has been commissioned in the U.S. to premiere exclusively as part of the Hulu original slate. The Forge is producing and all3media International will handle global sales.

Kiri is written by Thorne, whose previous credits include National Treasure (Channel 4), Glue (E4), The Fades (BBC Three), This is England ’86, ’88, ’90 (Channel 4) and The Last Panthers (Sky).

Thorne commented: “My Mum spent most of her life in the caring professions and I’ve always wanted to find a way of examining the pressures they are put under. I’m so grateful as always for the bravery and brilliance of Channel 4 in being prepared to look these issues in the face.”

George Ormond, co-executive producer, added: “Following Miriam, Tobi and Alice as their lives are put under the spotlight is utterly compelling; an emotional rollercoaster. It’s typical of Jack’s writing that it leaves you torn—you love them, and question them at the same time. We’re delighted to have attracted such a wonderful cast, and to be working with Jack again.”

Beth Willis, Channel 4’s head of drama, said: “We are honored and excited to have Jack return to Channel 4 for Kiri. Jack’s characters are uncompromising and contradictory and always utterly, recognizably human—his typical wit and warmth blast off the page right from the start. We are so thrilled to have the perfect Sarah Lancashire bringing the funny, bold and troubled Miriam to life.”