Jack O’Connell has been cast in BBC Two’s adaptation of Ian McGuire’s acclaimed novel The North Water.
The four-part thriller, which is being written by Andrew Haigh (Lean on Pete, Looking, Weekend), will also star Colin Farrell and is produced by See-Saw Films.
Set in the UK and the ice floes of the Arctic in the late 1850s, The North Water tells the story of Patrick Sumner (O’Connell), a disgraced ex-army surgeon who signs up as ship’s doctor on a whaling expedition to the Arctic.
On board he meets Henry Drax (Farrell), the harpooner, a brutish killer whose amorality has been shaped to fit the harshness of his world.
Hoping to escape the horrors of his past, Sumner finds himself on an ill-fated journey with a murderous psychopath. In search of redemption, his story becomes a harsh struggle for survival in the Arctic wasteland.
Haigh said: “Jack is a fiercely instinctual actor who brings nuance and complexity to every character he plays. I can’t wait to see him bring Patrick Sumner to life.”
Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama, added: “Jack is one of the most fearless and instinctive actors of his generation and is the perfect choice to bring The North Water’s troubled and ambiguous hero to life.”
“Jack is one of the most exciting young actors working today,” adds See-Saw Films’ COO Hakan Kousetta and Head of Television Jamie Laurenson.
“He elevates each project he’s been a part of, so it’s no surprise he’s received so much attention and acclaim. We’re thrilled to have him on board.”
Filming will begin in autumn 2019.
