Luther star Nikki Amuka-Bird and Life In Squares’ Phoebe Fox will star in the hotly-anticipated BBC adaptation of Zadie Smith’s novel NW.
It tells the story of two friends who grew up together in north-west London, but whose lives have taken them in different directions – with Nikki playing successful barrister Natalie and Phoebe her oldest friend Leah, who has not ventured far from their childhood estate.
Suite Francaise director Saul Dibb will helm the 90-minute feature-length drama, which began filming in London this week, with locations including Kilburn Station and Queen’s Park.
Author Zadie said: “I am thrilled that NW is being made and especially pleased that Nikki Amuka-Bird is to play Natalie, a powerful stage actress who I know will bring depth and heart to the role.”
Nikki, who played DCI Erin Gray opposite Idris Elba’s Luther, added: “NW was my postcode for many years and I was amazed to read a book that so brilliantly and honestly captured the reality of life in one of our most multi-cultural suburbs, so it’s thrilling to be involved in bringing it to the screen.”
Also starring in the production will be Anuvahood’s Richie Campbell and The Five’s O.T. Fagbenle as well as new talent including Rosalind Eleazar, Ronke Adekoluejo, and James MacCallum.
Ripper Street writer Rachel Bennette has penned the adaptation. It is being co-produced by BBC Two and Mammoth Screen, the makers of Poldark.
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