01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
BBC reveals first-look images of Anna Maxwell Martin in harrowing new drama
Unforgivable, from Time creator Jimmy McGovern, follows one family as they try to come to terms with the devastating impact of grooming and sexual abuse
The BBC has unveiled the first-look images for its new hard-hitting drama Unforgivable, showcasing actors Anna Friel, Bobby Schofield and Anna Maxwell Martin in their latest roles.
Penned by Time writer Jimmy McGovern, the intense original drama delves into the consequences of grooming and sexual abuse on a family unit.
First-look stills reveal Emmy-winner Anna Friel portraying a character also named Anna, Anne actor Bobby as Joe, Bafta-winners Anna Maxwell Martin as Katherine and David Threlfall playing Brian, with Adolescence actor Austin Haynes cast as Tom.
Located and shot in Liverpool, Unforgivable casts the spotlight on the fictive Mitchell family as they grapple with the shattering impact of a vile act of abuse committed by one of their kin.
Joe makes his way to a rehabilitation centre after completing his prison term, which provides him accommodation and help post-release, reports the Liverpool Echo.
He takes on therapy sessions in the hope of understanding what led him to commit the abuse, and to face the consequences of his actions, while supported by ex-nun Katherine.
At the same time, Joe's sister Anna is dealing with the effects his crime had on her family, including her sons Tom and Peter (Fin McParland) and her father Brian.
The BBC has hinted: "The drama examines the extensive ripple effect of abuse from multiple perspectives and how those involved can try to move forwards in the midst of the devastation."
Joining the line-up are Mark Womack, Paddy Rowan and Phina Oruche.
BBC Drama Director Lindsay Salt previously offered an insight into what viewers can expect from the upcoming drama, stating: "Jimmy McGovern is one of our greatest dramatists, and a master at writing about today's world.
"His new film sensitively examines the pain of abuse and how it affects not only the victim but ripples out across the whole family. To see it brought to the screen with such a high calibre cast and creative team is further testament to the quality of Jimmy's writing."
Writer Jimmy expressed his enthusiasm as well: "I can't believe the cast and crew that have been assembled for this production. It's a challenging film, yes, but I can't wait for it to be shown."
LA Productions' Executive Producer Colin McKeown also added his thoughts: "This is a profoundly challenging and sensitive subject, tackled with intelligence and care by Jimmy McGovern. It's a privilege to be working with him again following the success of our previous collaborations on single dramas: Common, Care, Reg and Anthony."
