Channel 4 has announced a major new drama titled “Brian and Margaret,” produced by Baby Cow Productions, known for hits like “This Time With Alan Partridge” and “Chivalry.” The drama is directed by Stephen Frears, an Academy Award nominee and BAFTA winner, and penned by James Graham, an RTS award-winner.
Based on Rob Burley’s book “Why is This Lying Bastard Lying to Me: Searching for the Truth on Political TV,” the series stars Steve Coogan and Harriet Walter. It delves into the final television interview between former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and journalist Brian Walden, questioning the impact of the decline in full-length political TV interviews on modern democracy.
The infamous 45-minute interview from 1989 between Walden (Coogan) and Thatcher (Walter) became a national sensation and preceded Thatcher’s resignation. The drama explores their complex relationship and its implications for political media.
Steve Coogan expressed his excitement about portraying a story from an era of in-depth political interviews, while Harriet Walter shared her enthusiasm for taking on the role of Thatcher with such a talented team.
James Graham highlighted the importance of revisiting the dynamic between Walden and Thatcher amidst another election season, emphasising the drama’s relevance to current political discourse.
Sarah Monteith, CEO of Baby Cow Productions, remarked on the significance of bringing this pivotal moment in British politics to a new audience, hinting at a nostalgia for rigorous TV interviewing that once supported democracy.
Ollie Madden, Director of Film 4 and Head of Channel 4 Drama, praised Graham’s scripts and expressed anticipation for Frears’ direction alongside a stellar cast.
“Brian and Margaret” is set to be a two-part series, each episode lasting 60 minutes. It has been commissioned by Ollie Madden alongside Ben Wadey, Drama Commissioning Executive. The executive producers include Sarah Monteith and Rupert Majendie. Dan Winch serves as the producer. BBC Studios will distribute the series internationally.
