Richard Gadd created the drama with Jamie Bell in mind to star

Jamie Bell will star alongside Richard Gadd in new drama Half Man, with filming set to take place in Scotland next year.

When first announced, and then called Lions, the drama is a 6 x 45’ series from writer/creator/exec producer Gadd and Mam Tor Productions. The producer is Wendy Griffin; Alexandra Brodski and Eshref Reybrouck are attached to direct the series, for delivery to BBC One in the UK and HBO in the US.

Half Man centres on estranged ‘brothers’ Niall (Bell) and Ruben (Gadd). When Ruben shows up unexpectedly at Niall’s wedding, it culminates in an eruption of violence that looks back nearly 40 years over their lives and asks what it really means to be a man…

Gadd said: “I am delighted to confirm I will be playing Ruben in the newly crowned Half Man for the BBC/HBO alongside the incomparable Jamie Bell.

“When I wrote the show, I did it with him in mind, never thinking for a second we would manage to land him. So I could not be happier for everything that has come to pass in getting him on board. He is one of the greatest actors of his generation and I am so looking forward to seeing what he does with the role.

“Thanks to all the staff at the BBC, HBO, and Mam Tor Productions for making it all happen. I cannot wait to work with you all in the months ahead.”

Bell added: “I’m so excited to join this incredible creative team. Richard has once again crafted something poignant and singular. I’m honored to have been asked to bring this to life with him.”

Louise Thornton, head of commissioning at BBC Scotland, commented: “Half Man is a brilliant example of BBC Scotland’s ambition to bring high quality drama, rooted in Scotland, to audiences in Scotland, the UK and the world. We’re delighted to be announcing this exciting casting news today and look forward to seeing Richard and Jamie bring these complex and powerful characters to life.”

The other executive producers are Tally Garner and Morven Reid for Mam Tor Productions, Gaynor Holmes for the BBC and Gavin Smith for BBC Scotland.