BBC acquires new drama 'The Narrow Road to the Deep North'

The Narrow Road to the Deep North stars ‘Saltburn’ actor Jacob Elordi

The BBC has acquired The Narrow Road to the Deep North, a sweeping adaptation of Richard Flanagan’s Booker Prize-winning novel, for BBC iPlayer and BBC One. The series is produced by Curio Pictures in partnership with Sony Pictures Television.

This five-part drama follows the life of Dorrigo Evans, portrayed by Jacob Elordi (Euphoria, Saltburn) in his youth and Ciarán Hinds (Kin, Belfast) as the older Dorrigo. The story weaves through his passionate affair with Amy Mulvaney, played by Odessa Young (Manodrome, The Stand), his harrowing experiences as a prisoner in a WWII POW camp, and his later years as a respected surgeon and reluctant war hero.

Described as an intimate exploration of a complex character, the series delves into themes of war’s courage and cruelty while also presenting a timeless love story that endures through life’s darkest moments.

Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, praised the adaptation, stating: “The Narrow Road to the Deep North is a profound, beautiful, and heart-wrenching series. It intricately portrays the different phases of Dorrigo Evans’ life, from the passion of first love to the stark realities of life as a POW in occupied Burma. We’re delighted to bring this extraordinary series to BBC audiences.”

Jo Porter and Rachel Gardner of Curio Pictures, serving as executive producers, added: “This is an epic story about the resilience of love in the face of unimaginable hardship. Working with creators Shaun Grant and Justin Kurzel, novelist Richard Flanagan, and our incredible cast and crew, we are thrilled to bring this remarkable tale to the screen.”