The BBC has greenlit a captivating new thriller, The Guest, produced by Quay Street Productions.
- Eve Myles and Gabrielle Creevy are set to star, showcasing Welsh talent in lead roles.
- The series explores complex themes like class disparity and social mobility through thrilling storytelling.
- Matthew Barry and Nicola Shindler collaborate again, promising high drama and relatable characters.
- Filming commences in Cardiff, buoyed by support from Creative Wales.
The BBC has announced the commissioning of a new thriller series titled ‘The Guest’. This four-part series is penned and executive produced by Matthew Barry, known for his previous works such as Men Up and Industry. Nicola Shindler’s Quay Street Productions, famed for titles like Fool Me Once and Dead Hot, will undertake the production. The series is co-commissioned with BBC Cymru Wales and is slated for BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
The Guest boasts a stellar cast, featuring Eve Myles and Gabrielle Creevy in leading roles. Myles, recognised from her performances in Hijack and Keeping Faith, teams with Creevy, known for Amadeus and Three Women, to bring this narrative to life. Accompanying them are notable actors such as Cardiff native Sion Daniel Young, Emun Elliott, and Clive Russell, among others, ensuring a robust and engaging performance ensemble.
The series is described as an addictive, fast-paced narrative centring on the dynamic and potentially dangerous relationship between Fran, a successful business owner, and Ria, her employee. Beyond its thrilling veneer, the storyline promises a profound examination of class structures and social mobility, pertinent themes in today’s societal discourse.
Matthew Barry has expressed his enthusiasm about reuniting with Nicola Shindler and the Quay Street Productions team, emphasising the series’ thematic core of tension and humour entwined with real-world relevance. Shindler has noted the thriller’s focus on two complex female characters, characterised by unexpected twists and emotional depth.
Lindsay Salt, BBC Drama Director, highlighted the gripping nature of ‘The Guest’, pointing to its engaging plot and the anticipated viewer appeal. The collaboration follows the success of Men Up, fostering high expectations for this new production.
Executive producers for the series include Davina Earl and Nicola Shindler from Quay Street Productions, alongside Rebecca Ferguson and Nick Andrews from the BBC. The direction is helmed by Ashley Way, with BAFTA-winner Karen Lewis producing, ensuring a top-tier production team is in place. ITV Studios will manage international distribution, expanding the series’ reach beyond UK audiences.
Shooting has initiated in and around Cardiff, a decision supported by the Welsh Government through Creative Wales, underlining the series’ cultural and regional authenticity.
‘The Guest’ promises to deliver a compelling and culturally resonant drama, reflective of contemporary issues.
