The much-anticipated casting for “Boarders,” an upcoming comedy drama series produced by Studio Lambert in association with All3Media International for BBC Three and iPlayer, has been officially announced. Created by the acclaimed writer Daniel Lawrence Taylor, known for his work on “Timewasters,” the six-part series promises to be a refreshing and entertaining show that explores the lives of five talented underprivileged black students from inner-city London who win scholarships to the prestigious St Gilbert’s boarding school.
The story follows these gifted individuals as they navigate the challenges of their new environment, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city for the elite world of boarding school. Throughout their journey, they will encounter both the highs and lows of this unfamiliar territory, learning about themselves, their identity, and the stark differences between life on the other side and life back home.
The main cast includes promising young talents such as Josh Tedeku, known for “Supacell” and “A Town Called Malice,” Jodie Campbell from “Bulletproof” and “No Return,” and Myles Kamwendo, who recently appeared in “The School for Good and Evil.” Joining them are Sekou Diaby and Aruna Jalloh, both making their screen debuts.
Daniel Lawrence Taylor will not only be the creative force behind the series but will also appear on screen as Gus, a mentor figure to the new students at St Gilbert’s. Derek Riddell, renowned for his roles in “Happy Valley” and “Gentleman Jack,” will take on the role of headmaster Bernard, while Niky Wardley, known for “Queen of Oz” and “The Catherine Tate Show,” will play Carol Watlington-Geese, Chair of the Board.
The ensemble cast is further enriched by talented actors like Harry Gilby, Tallulah Greive, Rosie Graham, Georgina Sadler, and Assa Kanoute, who is making her screen debut.
Speaking about the project, Daniel Lawrence Taylor expressed his excitement about seeing “Boarders” come to life, praising the exceptional cast and creative team for their enthusiasm and dedication. He hopes that the audience will embrace the series with the same love they are putting into its production.
Studio Lambert’s Susan Hogg commended Taylor’s courage and insight in tackling the challenging premise of the show through the lens of comedy. She described “Boarders” as a bold and original comedy drama that strikes a perfect balance between heartfelt emotion and humor.
Fiona Campbell, Controller of Youth Audience for BBC iPlayer and BBC Three, expressed delight in welcoming such a talented cast and looked forward to the refreshing and hilariously funny journey the series would take viewers on.
“Boarders,” a 6-part series, was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of Daniel Lawrence Taylor, Emma Dennis-Edwards, Yemi Oyefuwa, and Ryan Calais Cameron, who joined Taylor in the writing room. The series is directed by Ethosheia Hylton and Sarmad Masud, produced by Ali MacPhail with Carleen Beadle-Larcombe as the line producer. The executive producers include Daniel Lawrence Taylor, Susan Hogg, Maddie Sinclair for Studio Lambert, and Nawfal Faizullah, and Ayela Butt for the BBC.
Filming is currently underway in the South West of England, and “Boarders” is set to premiere on BBC Three and iPlayer next year. All3Media International will be responsible for distributing the series globally.
