ITV’s Head of Drama, Polly Hill, has given the green light to the production of a gripping crime drama titled “Code of Silence.” The series will feature Rose Ayling-Ellis in the lead role and is created and written by talented writer Catherine Moulton. The show will be produced by the renowned independent production company, Mammoth Screen. “Code of Silence” is set to premiere on ITV and will also be available for streaming on ITVX.
The captivating storyline of “Code of Silence” revolves around Alison Woods, a Deaf catering worker who finds herself entangled in a precarious situation. Balancing two jobs, one at a police canteen and the other at a local bar, Alison struggles to make ends meet while caring for her Deaf mother, Julie. Unexpectedly, DC Ashleigh Francis approaches Alison, seeking her assistance in lip-reading conversations of dangerous criminals. This plunges Alison into a thrilling and unfamiliar world.
Alison’s skill in interpreting the secretive meetings of the gang quickly becomes instrumental in unlocking a crucial police investigation. However, her involvement in the case becomes complicated when she develops feelings for Liam, one of the main suspects. Aware of the risks she faces by cooperating with the police, Alison is torn between stepping away and her unwavering determination to see the truth revealed.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the project, Polly Hill remarked, “In a world where there’s a lot of crime drama, ‘Code of Silence’ really stands out. It’s a brilliantly original story and a great role for Rose Ayling-Ellis. Catherine Moulton has written a thrilling drama that audiences will be gripped and surprised by, but she also puts you in the shoes of Alison, a young Deaf woman. I am incredibly proud to make this show with Rose, Catherine, and Mammoth Screen. It’s a mainstream crime show, but one that can make a real difference to the audience’s understanding of the Deaf community.”
Rose Ayling-Ellis, sharing her excitement about joining the cast, said, “I am so thrilled to be coming on board for ‘Code of Silence’ and to get to work with the incredible team at Mammoth Screen. When I first read Catherine Moulton’s script, it was obvious that her first-hand experiences and understanding have enabled her to write a truly authentic character, and I knew I had to be a part of this project. I am so delighted ITV is as excited as we are to bring this to life, and I can’t wait to get started!”
Damien Timmer, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Mammoth Screen, expressed his admiration for the collaboration, stating, “Rose Ayling-Ellis is one of the UK’s most luminous stars, and Catherine Moulton is one of our most exciting new writing talents, so this really is a match made in heaven! ‘Code of Silence’ is a riveting thriller that will make you look at the world around you with new eyes.”
Catherine Moulton, the writer behind successful shows like “Baptiste,” “Then You Run,” and “Hijack,” conveyed her enthusiasm, saying, “I am beyond excited to be working with Rose, ITV, and Mammoth on ‘Code of Silence.’ It’s a fantastic opportunity to combine my love for tense, twisty thrillers with my experience in lip reading and hearing loss, all in a show for ITV. I can’t imagine a more perfect Alison than Rose, and I will do my best to ensure the story keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.”
Under the supervision of ITV’s Head of Drama, Polly Hill, the series will be produced from the channel’s perspective. Tom Leggett and Damien Timmer will serve as executive producers for Mammoth Screen, alongside Catherine Moulton.
Mammoth Screen, a subsidiary of ITV Studios, is a highly acclaimed production company responsible for critically acclaimed dramas such as “Endeavour” (Series 1-IX), “The Tower” (Series I and II), “McDonald & Dodds” (Series I-IV), “Why Didn’t They Ask Evans?,” and “Tom Jones” for ITV and ITVX. They have also produced hit shows like “The Serpent,” “Noughts + Crosses” (Series I and II), “World On Fire” (Series I and II), “The Rapture,” and “Grime Kids” for BBC.
International distribution of “Code of Silence” will be handled by ITV Studios.
