Suranne Jones Cast in BBC One/HBO Drama

Doctor Foster‘s Suranne Jones is set to lead the cast of Gentleman Jack, Sally Wainwright’s new drama for BBC One and HBO.

A Lookout Point production, Gentleman Jack will star Jones as Anne Lister, the landowner who returns to Halifax, West Yorkshire, in 1832 to transform the fate of her ancestral home, Shibden Hall. Jones and Wainwright previously worked together on Dead Clever, Unforgiven and Scott & Bailey.

“I first worked with Sally ten years ago and I remember the feeling of reading her scripts like it was yesterday,” Jones said. “They were scripts for women; fresh, daring and bizarre in a wonderful, modern, fun, complex and challenging way. Now I once again get to speak the words of an almighty talent on a show I know she holds close to her heart. To have Sally direct me on this feels like I’ll finally get to work on a project with her where the connection will be immediate, exciting and new each day, and we can enjoy that amazing ride together! I’m thrilled to be back at the BBC with this role and to be joining the Lookout Point and HBO family.”

Wainwright said, “I am delighted to be working with Suranne once again, not just as a writer this time, but as a director. Bringing Anne Lister to life with all her complexity, passion, brilliance and wit is an epic challenge that will require all the boldness, subtlety, energy and humor that I know only Suranne will bring to it.”

Piers Wenger, controller of BBC Drama, noted, “Suranne is a screen actor of the highest caliber who brings wit, depth and attack to every character she plays. We are so fortunate to have her as our Anne. Sally’s wonderful writing is in some very exciting hands.”

Faith Penhale, executive producer at Lookout Point, added, “I can’t think of anyone better to play the magnificent and mercurial Anne Lister—Suranne is one of Britain’s most compelling screen actors; she is the perfect match for Sally’s outstanding scripts and together they will create unforgettable television.”