BBC unveils new drama series with all-star cast including Royle Family legend

BBC One logo
-Credit: (Image: BBC)


The BBC has revealed the star-studded cast for its upcoming drama, Riot Women. The series is the brainchild of BAFTA-winning writer Sally Wainwright, famed for her work on Happy Valley and Gentleman Jack.

Currently being filmed in West Yorkshire, Riot Women tells the tale of five women who form a punk rock band, complete with two backing singers, to compete in a local talent contest. As they pen their first song, they realise they have much to express through their music.

The six-part series delves into themes of friendship, resilience, and women's defiance of societal norms. Balancing demanding jobs and complex family dynamics, the band becomes an outlet for the leads, gradually transforming their lives.

Read more: Martin Lewis issues 'dire' UK households warning

However, a resurfacing secret threatens to drive a wedge between the group's main creatives, Kitty and Beth. Joanna Scanlan (After Love, The Thick of It) and Rosalie Craig (Moonflower Murders, Serpent Queen) lead the cast as Beth and Kitty respectively.

They are joined by Tamsin Greig (Sexy Beast, The Completely Made Up Adventures of Dick Turpin) as Holly, Lorraine Ashbourne (Sherwood, Alma's Not Normal) as Jess, and Amelia Bullmore (The Buccaneers, Vienna Blood) as Yvonne. Sue Johnston, adored for her role in The Royle Family, will portray Jess's Aunt Mary.

Sally Wainwright said: "I think I am more excited about this than anything else I have ever written. Ever. Oh my God.

"We have five of the most fabulous actresses on the planet playing the Riot Women. It's scarily exciting."