The Stage

Walters lands gem of a role in BBC drama

Published Thursday 18 May 2006 at 16:35 by Liz Thomas

Julie Walters and Robert Glenister are to star alongside Billie Piper in the forthcoming BBC adaptation of Philip Pullman’s The Ruby In the Smoke.

Set in Victorian London, the plot follows young detective Sally Lockhart [Piper]. Walters will take on the role of her bete noire, Mrs Holland.

Adapted by Bafta-winning writer Adrian Hodges, who won widespread acclaim for Charles II and Rome, the drama will also feature David Harewood, Ramon Tikaram, JJ Field and Don Gilet.

Producer Kate Bartlett says: “I am absolutely thrilled to announce such a talented, dynamic and popular cast. It is a real credit to Philip Pullman, who is without question one of Britain’s leading and most brilliant novelists, and to Adrian Hodges, for his superb adaptation of this exciting action adventure that will appeal to both adults and children alike.”

The film will be directed by Bafta Craft nominee Brian Percival, whose credits include Much Ado About Nothing, North & South and Clocking Off and will be executive produced by Sally Woodward Gentle.

Filming commences on location in London and Liverpool this month and the show will be broadcast later this year. The Ruby in the Smoke will be followed by the second novel The Shadow in the North, which films later this summer and will be aired in 2007.