Renowned British actor Sean Bean is set to take on the role of a gang leader in the latest Liverpool-based crime series “This City is Ours,” created by Stephen Butchard. This highly anticipated project, reported by Deadline, promises an intense and gripping narrative, bolstered by a star-studded cast and experienced production team.
Sean Bean, a two-time BAFTA winner and widely known for his role in Game of Thrones, will portray Ronnie Phelan, a powerful and complex gang leader. The series will feature an ensemble cast, including James Nelson-Joyce, Hannah Onslow, and Jack McMullen. James Nelson-Joyce, known for his roles in “Bird” and “A Thousand Blows,” will play Michael Kavanagh, a close friend of Phelan. Hannah Onslow, whose credits include “Empire of Light” and “This Is Going to Hurt,” will take on the role of Diana Williams, Michael’s partner. Jack McMullen, seen recently in “Hijack” and “Ford V Ferrari,” is set to portray Jamie Phelan, Ronnie’s son.
“This City is Ours” boasts a formidable creative team. Stephen Butchard, known for his work on “The Good Mothers,” is the creator and writer, while Saul Dibb, acclaimed for “The Salisbury Poisonings,” will direct the series. The show promises a rich, multifaceted narrative that delves deep into the lives of its characters. Kavanagh’s journey, working alongside Phelan, takes center stage as he navigates love and loyalty while witnessing the gradual collapse of his gang.
The series marks a return to television for Bean, whose last BBC series was 2022’s “Marriage,” co-starring Nicola Walker. That same year, Bean won a BAFTA for his performance in the BBC prison drama “Time.” His impressive resume includes playing Thomas Cromwell in Butchard’s Disney+ series “Shardlake.”
With its intriguing premise and stellar cast, “This City is Ours” has already garnered significant interest and anticipation.
. The show aims to capture the raw, gritty essence of Liverpool gang life, offering viewers an authentic and immersive experience. The plot weaves together themes of friendship, love, ambition, and the harsh realities of gang life, promising a compelling watch.
The writing team for the series includes Stephen Butchard and Robbie O’Neill, ensuring a strong and cohesive storyline throughout its episodes. The production is helmed by Simon Maloney, whose impressive portfolio features “Peaky Blinders” and “I May Destroy You.” The executive producers are Harries, Rebecca Hodgson, Sian McWilliams for Left Bank Pictures, Butchard and Dibb, and Jo McClellan for the BBC.
In addition to the talented cast and crew, the production has received backing from notable entities. Sony Pictures Television is set to distribute the series internationally, widening its reach to a global audience. The Liverpool Film Office, through its Liverpool City Region Production Fund, is providing additional funding and support, ensuring the series stays true to its Liverpool roots and lends an authentic backdrop to the story.
Liverpool, known for its vibrant culture and historic significance, provides an ideal setting for a narrative exploring power dynamics, loyalty, and the underbelly of gang life. The show aims to delve deep into the city’s character, merging the authentic Liverpudlian spirit with its dark, dramatic storyline.
As production for “This City is Ours” continues, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unmissable addition to the crime drama genre. The combination of Sean Bean’s star power, Butchard’s sharp storytelling, and Dibb’s directorial expertise positions the series to leave a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.
English cinema aficionados and global viewers can look forward to this multifaceted portrayal of gang life, where personal relationships and societal pressures collide, offering a fresh, nuanced perspective. The series is set to premiere on the BBC, ensuring wide accessibility and setting the stage for what could be one of the most talked-about series of the year.
Stay tuned for more updates on the premiere date and additional cast announcements for “This City is Ours,” as the crime drama unfolds to captivate audiences with its intense and dynamic storyline.
