Drama Series
Distributed by ITVGP
ITV’s Director of Drama Polly Hill has commissioned The Party, a five-part drama based on the acclaimed novel by Elizabeth Day, starring Luke Evans (Nine Perfect Strangers, Fast and Furious) as Martin Gilmour, a journalist shaped by his lifelong friendship with the wealthy and charismatic politician Ben Fitzmaurice, played by Tom Cullen (The Gold, House of the Dragon).
Raised alone by his working-class mum, Sylvia, played by BAFTA award-winning Joanna Scanlan (After Love, Riot Women) Martin wins a scholarship to an elite boarding school, where he first meets Ben. They forge an unbreakable bond, as Ben and the Fitzmaurice’s give Martin the sense of belonging he has always craved. In turn, Martin remains unflinchingly loyal to Ben through even the greatest crises.
Three decades on, Martin is invited to Ben’s lavish birthday party at the Fitzmaurice’s country pile. The news of the Conservative leader’s resignation threatens to derail Ben’s party, as he considers announcing his intention to stand. Martin fears the publicity that Ben’s bid would bring, dredging up the secrets of their past with tragic consequences …
The drama moves between the shocking events of the party and the police investigation that follows, with flashbacks to Martin and Ben’s lives at school, university and London party days. What unfolds is a gripping exploration of identity, privilege and devotion, combined with a tender ode to anyone who has fought to live authentically. The Party is written and created for ITV by award winning showrunner Sarah Solemani (Chivalry, Ridley Road, Barry as writer, acting credits Chivalry, Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy) who also stars as Martin’s pregnant wife, Lucy.
Lydia Leonard (Gentleman Jack, Wolf Hall) plays Serena, Ben’s formidable wife, whilst Lindsay Duncan (The Morning Show, His Dark Materials) and Douglas Hodge (The Night Manager, I Hate Suzie Too) play Ben’s parents, Lady Katherine and Lord George Fitzmaurice.
Also joining the cast are; Sam Troughton (Lockerbie: A Search for Truth, Chernobyl), Sally Scott (Crow Girl, Black Doves), Sinéad Matthews (Hullraisers, The Crown), Bally Gill (Slow Horses, Interview With The Vampire), Amaka Okafor (Secret Service, Black Rabbit) and Rakie Ayola (Falling, The Pact 2).