Oscar-nominated actress Miranda Richardson will topline “Girlfriends,” a new drama from Kay Mellor (“In the Club”). Per Deadline, Phyllis Logan (aka Mrs. Hughes of “Downton Abbey”) and Zoë Wanamaker (“Mr. Selfridge”) will also star in the series about “being a modern woman of a certain age.”
“After the dramatic and sudden death of her husband Micky, Linda (Logan) reunites with childhood friends Sue (Richardson) and Gail (Wanamaker),” “Girlfriends’” description reads. “Each is facing their own issues, from a looming divorce to the loss of a high-powered job through age discrimination and juggling the responsibilities of their grandchildren and aging mothers. But as questions over the circumstances of Micky’s death start to be asked, accusations reveal secrets, deception, and doubts.”
“Girlfriends” is a project Mellor has wanted to bring to the screen for some time. “I’m aware that there are a lot of women of a certain age who feel like they are invisible and unheard,” the series’ writer-director explained. “So I’m proud to have the chance to shine a light on their lives and give them a voice. The series is not just a platform for their voices though — there is a big, bold, dark story at its heart, which is shot through with humor. I’m hoping both men and women will love it as much as I’ve loved writing it.”
Scheduled to begin filming in June, “Girlfriends” will air on ITV next year in six parts. Mellor is executive producing alongside ITV’s Head of TV Drama, Polly Hill. Rollem Productions is set to produce. Acorn Media Enterprises is ITV’s North American partner.
Richardson has received seven BAFTA nominations throughout her career. She took home the prize for her work in “Damage,” a film that also earned her an Academy Award nomination. The “Testament of Youth” actress received a second Oscar nod for “Tom & Viv.”
You can catch Richardson next as Clementine Churchill, the long-suffering wife of Winston, in “Churchill.” The drama opens June 2.
