First look at Keeley Hawes’ ‘forbidden’ romance in major new 6-part Ch4 drama

Keeley Hawes is set to star alongside Black Mirror actor Paapa Essiedu, with Adolescence writer Jack Thorne at the helm of the Channel 4 drama

hannel 4 has released the highly anticipated first trailer and fresh images for its major new drama, Falling, and it promises to be an emotional rollercoaster. Starring television favourite Keeley Hawes alongside Paapa Essiedu, the series explores a forbidden and wholly unexpected romance that will test boundaries.

The cast will also include Coma actor Jason Watkins, The Pact‘s Rakie Ayola, The Virtues actress Niamh Cusack and Gavin and Stacey star Adrian Scarborough.

What is Falling about?

Created and written by BAFTA award-winning writer Jack Thorne (Help, Adolescence), Falling marks the acclaimed creator’s first-ever foray into a pure love story. The contemporary drama follows Anna (Keeley), a deeply devoted nun, and David (Paapa), a dedicated Catholic priest.

Both are steadfastly committed to their work within the church and their local community, and neither ever expected to find themselves falling in love. However, when a spark unexpectedly ignites between the pair, they are forced to completely reevaluate their lives.

The moving series will follow Anna and David as they wrestle with their intense new feelings, what it means for the sacred vows they have taken and how it impacts their relationship with God.

Keeley Hawes dressed as a nun© Channel 4
Keeley Hawes will star alongside Paapa Essiedu in Falling

Produced by The Forge Entertainment (the team behind National Treasure and The Buccaneers), the series is being billed as a witty, moving, and incredibly honest look at unconventional love.

Cast excitement

Speaking about the new show, Keeley previously said: “I’m thrilled to be taking on the role of Anna and so looking forward to working alongside the brilliant Paapa Essiedu to bring Jack Thorne’s beautiful scripts to life,” while Paapa added: “Falling is a story that has Jack Thorne’s singular talent of mining the sublime out of the ordinary running all the way through.

“I can’t wait to work with Keeley, Peter and the rest of the team to bring this world to life.”

Jason Watkins and Niamh Cusack also star in the Falling© Channel 4
Jason Watkins and Niamh Cusack also star in the Falling

Jack, who previously had huge success with Netflix’s hit drama Adolescence, spoke about writing a love story for the first time, writing: “I never thought I’d write a love story, but I am very excited to be making one with the brilliant Peter Hoar.

“We feel so lucky we have persuaded the mighty (and lovely) Keeley Hawes, the brilliant (and also lovely) Paapa Essiedu and the most amazing company of (lovely) actors to come make this with us, The Forge and Channel 4.”

Transmission details will be announced in due course.