Fremantle, Groundswell Productions, Me + You Productions, and De Maio Entertainment have joined forces for an exciting new venture in collaboration with Channel 4. This collaboration brings forth an original drama series helmed by the acclaimed writer and filmmaker Victor Levin, renowned for his work on “Mad Men” and “Mad About You”. Titled “Alice & Jack”, the series boasts a stellar cast including the Academy Award-nominated actress and producer Andrea Riseborough, known for her roles in “To Leslie” and “Birdman”, alongside the versatile actor, director, and screenwriter Domhnall Gleeson, acclaimed for his performances in “Brooklyn” and “The Revenant”. Gleeson’s remarkable portrayal in “The Patient” even earned him a coveted Golden Globe nomination.
Supporting roles are skillfully brought to life by Aisling Bea, recognized for her work in “Greatest Days” and “This Way Up”, Aimee Lou Wood from “Sex Education” fame, and the talented Sunil Patel, known for his contributions to “This Time with Alan Partridge” and “Stath Lets Flats”.
Guided by Finnish film director and screenwriter Juho Kuosmanen, a co-writer and director of the Cannes Grand Prix co-winner “Compartment 6” in 2021, the series showcases its narrative prowess. Hong Khaou, acclaimed for “Lilting”, takes the reins for the second block of the series. “Alice & Jack” emerges as a captivating production by Fremantle in partnership with the esteemed Me + You Productions, winners of BAFTA and Emmy awards for their work on “I Am Ruth” and “Close to You”, the Academy Award-nominated Groundswell Productions recognized for “The Visitor”, and the esteemed De Maio Entertainment. Notably, global sales are managed by Fremantle.
Conceived and penned by Victor Levin, “Alice & Jack” weaves an enduring love story. The series introduces Alice (Andrea Riseborough) and Jack (Domhnall Gleeson), whose initial connection appears unbreakable. However, as their journey unfolds, will they find their way to happiness amidst life’s challenges and emotional intricacies? The series, characterized by its honesty, intimacy, and unexpected humour, captures the kaleidoscopic beauty of love in all its vibrant and unforeseen forms.
The ensemble of executive producers includes Victor Levin, Andrea Riseborough, Domhnall Gleeson, Juho Kuosmanen, Richard Yee, and Krishnendu Majumdar representing Me + You Productions, Michael London and Shannon Gaulding from Groundswell, Lorenzo De Maio from De Maio Entertainment, and Rebecca Dundon and Hilary Martin from Fremantle. The capable Tracy O’Riordan takes on the role of producer for Me + You Productions.
Riseborough and Gleeson played pivotal roles in the development of the project in direct collaboration with Groundswell. Me + You Productions has effectively overseen production and post-production in the UK, with principal photography taking place across London, South East England, and Gran Canaria during the summer of 2022.
Nick Lee, Head of Acquisitions and International at Channel 4, said: “The intimacy of Alice & Jack makes it both heart-wrenching and unmissable in equal measure. The inventive producing partners, the expert performances and the overall creative energy have resulted in something quite special; we are delighted to be the UK partner at Channel 4.”
Andrea Riseborough, said: “We unite in yearning to see evidence of real love, and, too, are soothed to share with one another the ache of its inevitable imperfection. This story is for anyone who could or couldn’t make the sacrifice that love demanded, for anyone who battles and accepts the one who makes their soul soar, for anyone who longs to feel, who has felt, and who feels the tingling anticipation of love’s joy.”
Domhnall Gleeson; said: “The only work I’ve wanted to watch and do since the pandemic is work about connection and love, and work with a sense of humour. Alice & Jack keep coming back to each other because they can’t help themselves – they find in each other something that they don’t have on their own. I think they’re soulmates, I think it’s bigger than just the two of them. Their story centres on connection and love in the most beautiful way and reminds us that we are always allowed to smile – even if it’s through the tears.”
Christian Vesper, CEO of Global Drama, Fremantle, commented: “Very rarely does a TV series pitch love and comedy in such a flawless combination. We’re both proud and humbled to be bringing such a smart and sophisticated drama from a team of world class creatives at the very top of their game. Working so closely with these partners of extraordinary value and extensive experience from the very inception of this project seemed the only way to embrace this new and exciting opportunity.”
Gleeson is repped by Paradigm and The Agency. Riseborough is repped by CAA, Independent Talent Group, Untitled Entertainment, and attorney Patti Felker.
