Erin Doherty has been revealed as part of the cast for an upcoming BBC drama, crafted by acclaimed writer Hugo Blick, which will take place in a caravan park set in the 1970s.
Doherty, whose roots trace back to Carndonagh in Donegal, was raised in Crawley, west London. Known for her performances in Netflix’s “Adolescence” and her portrayal of Princess Anne in “The Crown,” she takes on the role of Lela, a young mother fleeing with her daughter in the new series titled “California Avenue.”
This series will bring together a stellar cast, including Bill Nighy and Helena Bonham Carter, who portray Lela’s parents, Jerry and Eddie, alongside Tom Burke as the outcast showman, Cooper. The dynamics of familial relationships seem to be a central theme in this drama, which Blick describes as an exploration of the people who inspired his storytelling journey.
Filming is set to begin in Hertfordshire in the coming months for the six-part series. Blick expressed his aspiration to delve into various genres within television, stating that “California Avenue” embodies these explorations.
Executive producer Greg Brenman emphasized the emotional depth of the series, calling it a “world of precious relationships and unexpected revelations,” portrayed with both heart and humor. Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, stated viewers will be taken on “the journey of a lifetime to 1970s California Avenue.”
This project continues the collaboration between Blick and production partners Drama Republic, Eight Rooks, and the BBC, following their successful works on series like “The English” and “Black Earth Rising,” showcasing a promising blend of creativity and storytelling.
The anticipation surrounding “California Avenue” suggests a thoughtful narrative poised to resonate with audiences, celebrating both the trials and the strengths found within familial bonds.