Anna Friel is to star in a newly commissioned ITV drama from acclaimed screenwriter Tony Marchant, creator of Garrow’s Law, Public Enemies and Leaving, and RED Production Company.
Butterfly follows the story of an 11-year-old boy, Max, who decides he wants to live life as a girl. He has always dressed as one at home, but now he doesn’t want to hide who he is.
His mum, Vicky, played by Anna Friel and father, Stephen, no longer live together, which puts additional pressure on Max who yearns for an idyllic home life.
ITV Drama boss Polly Hill said: “Butterfly is a beautiful story about a young boy on the cusp of puberty who doesn’t feel comfortable in his own body.
“It’s a heartwarming and emotional script from Tony Marchant that focuses upon gender identity and one boy’s search to be recognised for who he really is.
“We’re looking forward to working with Nicola Shindler and her team at RED Production Company.”
Shindler added: “It is great to work with Tony again on such a moving and warm drama that will touch the hearts of viewers with the universal themes of acceptance, inclusivity and unconditional love.
“Tony’s got a great knack of creating real and relatable characters whose stories strike a chord but also have such drama, making his work so compelling.
“ITV audiences will be in for a real treat!”