Sheridan Smith Joins Forces with Australian Stars from ‘The Newsreader’ and ‘Nitram’ in ITV-Stan Mystery Thriller ‘Two Birds’
Sheridan Smith Stars in New ITV-Stan Thriller ‘Two Birds’
Fresh from her BAFTA nomination, Sheridan Smith is set to star in the upcoming mystery thriller Two Birds, co-starring Australian actors Stephen Peacocke and Judy Davis. The series is produced by the team behind Mr. Bates vs the Post Office.
Two Birds centers on British Police Constable Izzie Cornwell, portrayed by Smith, who relocates to the fictional town of Dugdale after the recent death of her husband. Eager for a fresh start in Australia, she finds herself investigating a murder alongside her new superior, Matt, played by Peacocke. The case escalates when the victim is linked to a notorious local crime family led by Davis’s character, Mrs. Baxter.
The series is crafted by writer Helen FitzGerald, known for The Cry, and directed by BAFTA nominee James Griffiths, recognized for The Ballad of Wallis Island.
This project marks the latest collaboration between UK broadcaster ITV and Australia’s Stan, following their previous work on The Hack, produced by Patrick Spence through AC Chapter One. Additionally, ITV Studios is currently engaged in selling a cold case drama for Stan featuring Mia Wasikowska.
Smith, a familiar face on ITV, received a BAFTA TV Award nomination for her role in I Fought The Law, a drama tackling the repeal of the controversial double jeopardy law. She competes against other notable actors, including Erin Doherty, Jodie Whittaker, and Aimee Lou Wood. Smith previously won a BAFTA for her role in Mrs Biggs.
“I’m thrilled to be playing the irresistibly complex Izzie Cornwell who is in search of new beginnings in Australia,” Smith remarked. “Helen FitzGerald has created a dream role for me, as Izzie, through no fault of her own, becomes embroiled in a web of secrets and lies.”
Megan Palinkas will contribute to the writing, while Corrie Chen is set to direct three episodes. Griffiths, FitzGerald, and Luke Speed will serve as executive producers, alongside Andy Ryan and Donna Chang for Stan Australia. The series will also see Spence as an executive producer through AC Chapter One, with Martha Coleman producing for Third Act Stories.
Filming is slated to commence this spring in Perth and Kalgoorlie, Western Australia. The production will be the first to utilize Perth Film Studios and is backed by Screenwest through the Government of Western Australia’s Production Attraction Incentive, aimed at attracting significant screen productions to the region. Two Birds is produced in association with and will be distributed internationally by ITV Studios.
