Scripted

The BBC has unveiled the lead cast for Open Water (8x30') as production begins on the eight-part drama based on Caleb Azumah Nelson's bestselling debut novel. Filming is currently taking place in Birmingham and London, with the series produced by Mam Tor Productions (a Banijay UK company) and B-Side Productions for BBC iPlayer and BBC One. Banijay Rights will handle international distribution.
Toheeb Jimoh (Ted Lasso, Industry) and Dujonna Gift (Snow White, Ludwig) star as Marcus and Effie, whose powerful connection develops into a deeply emotional love story shaped by friendship, ambition and personal boundaries. Marcus, an aspiring photographer working in retail, meets Effie, a dance student in Dublin, only to discover she is in a relationship with one of his closest friends. As they collaborate on a photography project documenting Black creatives in London, their relationship grows into an intense and transformative romance.

The ensemble cast also features Rhianna Dorris, Lamar Waves, Nadine Marshall, Henrietta Pearl Quartey, Hope Ikpoku Jnr, Sekou Diaby, Tara Tijani, Enva Lewis, Nash Nørgaard, Stevie Odu, Renee Bailey, Jayden Fowora Knight, Janina Elkin, Sherise Blackman, Matthew Dunster, Neve McDonnell, Javier Bonaparte, Beaux Bryant, Mo Sesay and Abdul Salis.

Author Caleb Azumah Nelson serves as lead writer, director and executive producer, describing the adaptation as "an amazing" creative journey and praising the commitment of the cast and crew in bringing the novel to the screen.
BBC Drama Director Lindsay Salt said the adaptation captures the emotional depth that has made Open Water a global literary success. "With Caleb at the helm, and Toheeb and Dujonna leading a brilliant cast, we're thrilled to bring this powerful and distinctive love story to BBC audiences," she said.