Samantha Morton, who was recently cast in a leading role in the Sky Atlantic/Canal+ co-production The Last Panthers, has signed on to co-star opposite newcomer Archie Cox in BBC One’s 90 minute adaptation of the Laurie Lee book Cider With Rosie, TVWise has learned.
Based on the book of the same name, Cider With Rosie is described as “an evocative coming-of-age story” and is set in a Cotswald village during and immediately after World War One. It tells the story of how a young Laurie Lee (Archie Cox) grew into a man, recounting his first love, loss and family upheaval.
Samantha Morton will play Annie Lee, Laurie’s mother. “I am thrilled to have taken on the role of Annie Lee in BBC One’s adaptation of Cider With Rosie as it is one of my favourite books”, Morton said of the role. Rounding out the cast is Jessica Hynes as Miss Crabby, June Whitfield as Granny Wallon, Annette Crosbie as Granny Trill. Billy Howle as Private James Harris, Ruby Ashbourne Serkis as Rosie and Emma Curtis as Marj.
Cider With Rosie is one of four literary adaptations being produced for BBC One as part of the channel’s season on 20th century literature, with the other three being An Inspector Calls, The Go-Between and Lady Chatterley’s Lover. The Origin Pictures produced adaptation was penned by Ben Vanstone and is being directed by Philippa Lowthorpe. Helen Gregory is set as the producer, while Lucy Richer, David Thompson and Ed Rubin serve as executive producers.
“We are thrilled to be bringing Laurie Lee’s classic and much cherished memoir to the screen, with such a terrific cast of top British acting talent and exciting new discoveries”, said Ed Rubin, Head of Film and Television for Origin Pictures. “The combination of Ben’s vibrant adaptation and Philippa’s inimitable direction will make this new version of Cider With Rosie a real treat for BBC One next year.”
