5 drama adapted from Louise Candlish novel

Clapperboard Studios’ latest drama for 5 is an adaptation of Louise Candlish’s novel The Heights.

The six-part psychological thriller stars Anna Friel as Ellen, a working mum living in London who is fiercely protective of her children. When her teenage son Lucas brings new friend Kieran home, cracks begin to appear in family life when Kieran’s rude and reckless behaviour leads Lucas astray.

Newcomer Kit Redding plays Lucas while Conrad Khan plays Kieran. Further cast include Diarmuid Noyes, Stephen Tompkinson and Mark Stobbart.

Louise Candlish, who penned the best-selling novel upon which the drama is based, will exec produce the series. She is joined by Kate Croft and Mike Benson who exec produce on behalf of Clapperboard. Emma Foley is producer.

Simon Tyrrell (Maxine) is writing the series, which is directed by Dominic Leclerc (The Teacher) who also exec produces.

The Heights was ordered for 5 by deputy chief content officer Sebastian Cardwell. It is currently filming and will air on the broadcaster later this year. Fox Entertainment Global will handle international distribution.

Separately, Candlish has a drama deal with Red Planet Pictures covering her works, which includes recent ITV commission The Only Suspect.

Candlish said: “I couldn’t be happier to see The Heights adapted for 5 by the brilliant team at Clapperboard. Anna Friel is one of the finest acting talents of our generation and for her to be headlining as Ellen is truly a thrill.”

Benson, Clapperboard Studios managing director, added he is “a huge fan of all of Louise’s novels, which are in equal parts so characterful and thrilling”.

He added: “We’re appreciative of our friends at 5 and Fox for backing the show and can’t wait to bring it to audiences both in the UK and globally.”