BBC and Britbox US series Hope Street to film in Northern Ireland

BBC Daytime and BritBox North America are set to shoot a new serial crime drama series Hope Street in Northern Ireland from this month, including in County Down.

The series is created by Susanne Farrell (Dirty God) and Paul Marquess (London Kills) who executive produces alongside Donna Wiffen (The Bill) at Long Story TV. 

Set in the fictional town of Port Devine on the Northern Ireland coast, the show will focus on the mysterious arrival of English Detective Constable Alimah Kahn, the first Muslim police officer in the town’s history. 

The strong cast includes Amara Karan (The Night of) as Alimah, Brid Brennan (Brooklyn) as Concepta, Des McAleer (The Crown) as Barry, and Ciaran McMenamin (Primeval) as Finn.

The drama is the latest commission to be announced as part of the BBC and Northern Ireland Screen Partnership Agreement, which aims to represent Northern Ireland to audiences across the UK and internationally.

Carla-Maria Lawson, head of BBC Daytime and Early Peak, says: ““I’m thrilled that we’ll be bringing the beautiful backdrop of Northern Ireland to BBC One Daytime viewers in this exciting new drama, which is coming from such a stellar team.  I’m sure our audiences will love the intriguing characters who inhabit Hope Street and relish soaking in their surroundings.”

Emily Powers, head of BritBox North America, says: “Hope Street offers a modern twist and a fresh setting for the mystery shows that are popular with BritBox fans. It’s a new take on a beloved genre, set in an area rich in history.”

Paul Marquess, executive producer adds: “After nearly 30 years of producing drama in England, I am beyond excited to be heading home to make Hope Street. Set on Northern Ireland’s stunning coastline, the series is a celebration of local writing, acting and production talent. Warm, engaging and funny, Hope Street presents Northern Ireland to the world in a fresh new light.”