The IT Crowd’s Katherine Parkinson is to star in a new BBC One comedy The Kennedys, loosely based on the memoirs of actress, writer and TV presenter Emma Kennedy.
The Kennedy family have just moved into a new estate in Stevenage, New Town and arrive to a concrete maze of identical houses.
Delighted at the fact they are now on the cusp of being considered middle class, they quickly embrace community spirit and organise activities for the whole neighbourhood to get involved in.
In each episode the family pursue every opportunity they can to climb the social ladder – from organising an ‘Opportunity Knocks’ style talent show to hosting the estate’s first ever dinner party.
Joining Parkinson are Dan Skinner (Shooting Stars, House of Fools), Lucy Hutchison (The Politician’s Husband), Harry Peacock (Toast of London) and Emma Pierson (Up The Women).
Emma Kennedy said, “I grew up on a council estate when they were places of aspirational wonder.
“Social housing was simply the greatest start in life a young family could have, and in The Kennedys I hope I have delivered a series that reflects that hope and joy. It’s been a sharp thrill from start to finish.”
Myfanwy Moore, Controller of UK Comedy Production at BBC said, “The series is a joyful and nostalgic reflection on growing up in a time of innocence and double denim.
“Warm family life is punctuated by anarchic fun and silliness, as portrayed by a wonderfully funny cast.”
The Kennedys will air on BBC One later this year.
