BAFTA-Nominated Actor Taking on Young Alan Carr in BBC’s New Adrian Mole Adaptation
Oliver Savell, a two-time BAFTA nominee recognized for his portrayal of a young Alan Carr in Changing Ends, is set to lead the BBC’s adaptation of Sue Townsend’s classic novel, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole.
This new adaptation, supervised by acclaimed author David Nicholls, features a team of writers including Caitlin Moran. It arrives nearly three decades after the last Townsend drama. A first look at the series has recently been unveiled, with plans for it to premiere next year.
A nationwide casting search led to Savell being selected for the lead role in this adaptation, which revolves around the life of an awkward teenager navigating his formative years in Margaret Thatcher-era Britain. Set in 1981, the story begins as Adrian starts his diary, documenting his family life and the challenges of adolescence before the rise of mobile phones and social media. With only a ballpoint pen at his disposal, Adrian grapples with concerns about his acne, his parents’ divorce, the pains of first love, and his lack of experience with the female form.
Joining Savell are Lisa McGrillis, who will portray his mother, Pauline, and Colin Hoult as his father, George. Pam Ferris will play Grandma, while Galaxie Clear takes on the role of Pandora. Alun Armstrong is cast as Bert, with Jude Forsey as Nigel, Rory Keenan as Mr. Lucas, David Wilmot as Mr. Scruton, and Karl Collins as Mr. Cherry rounding out the cast.
Aside from his leading role, Savell has gained acclaim for his performance in ITV’s semi-autobiographical series Changing Ends, a project that recounts Carr’s early life and features the comedian portraying himself. Savell’s work in this series has also garnered him nominations at the forthcoming BAFTAs.
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ (9×30’) is a production of Big Talk Studios for BBC iPlayer and BBC One. The project, commissioned by Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, also brings on board director Alex Winckler and producer Charlotte Robinson. Executive producers include Kenton Allen and Luke Alkin for Big Talk Studios, along with Nicholls and Winckler. The Sue Townsend estate is represented by Jane Villiers at Sayle Screen. Currently, filming is underway in Hartlepool, with the series expected to air next year.
