Production is underway on Coma, a new Channel 5 drama starring Jason Watkins. 
 

The 4 x 60’ domestic thriller is from Roughcut Television – it marks the launch of the prodco’s new drama slate – and CBS Studios, and explores the ramifications and ensuing chaos of one fateful decision. 
 

Coma (w/t) is written and created by Ben Edwards (Miss Scarlett And The Duke, The Good Karma Hospital, Stella); the executive producers for Roughcut Television are Alex Smith, Marianna Abbotts and Ash Atalla. Michael Samuels directs. 

Watkins plays devoted family man Simon, married to Beth (Claire Skinner, left), who finds himself at breaking point as his neighbourhood is terrorised by a group of teenagers, led by the menacing 17-year-old Jordan Franklin, played by Joe Barber. 
 

Simon is pushed to the very edge one day as he confronts Jordan, with a split-second decision subsequently changing everyone’s lives. The supporting cast includes David Bradley, Jonas Armstrong, Kayla Meikle and David Mumeni. 

Watkins said: “I cannot wait to get stuck into playing Simon in Coma, this character faces an agonising situation that will keep viewers questioning their own morals. I’m sure it will be a thrilling and emotionally charged experience.”
 

Paul Testar, commissioning editor, Channel 5 and Paramount+, added: “Coma is a provocative thriller that asks the audience: What would I do? It’s the story of a good man who does one bad thing that causes his life to spiral out of control.”
 

Jason Watkins image credit: Ruth Crafer
Claire Skinner image credit: Jeff Overs