A Channel 5 detective drama will begin filming in Northern Ireland this spring.
The award-winning HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones truly put Northern Ireland’s name on the map of world filming locations. The adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s series of books introduced the world at large to such landmarks as the Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle.
Since Game of Thrones, Northern Ireland has become a hotbed for film and television production, with renowned detective dramas The Fall and Line of Duty among the most well-known of its products.
And now, yet another detective drama is set to begin filming in Northern Ireland this spring.
Ellis – a three-part detective drama
Set to begin filming in Northern Ireland in spring, Ellis is a three-part detective drama series that follows DCI Ellis as she comes in to assist local law enforcement with failing investigations.
Each two-hour-long episode will see Ellis and her partner, DS Harper, arrive at different police stations and attempt to win over the local force.
Beset by racial prejudice, sexual discrimination, and closed ranks, Ellis is accustomed to being dismissed and overlooked, but nothing will stand in the way of the tenacious homicide detective.
Sharon D. Clarke – a three-time Olivier Award-winner
Award-winning actor and singer Sharon D. Clarke will play the titular DCI Ellis. Clarke is best known for her roles in Holby City and Doctor Who. She also appeared in the 2019 Elton John biopic Rocketman.
London theatregoers will recognise Clarke from productions like Ghost, The Amen Corner, Caroline, or Change, and Death of a Salesman. The actor earned Olivier Awards for each of the latter three.
Andrew Gower will play Ellis’s partner, DS Harper, in the series. Gower, who has had small parts in shows such as Black Mirror, You, and Midsummer Murders, is perhaps best known for his recurring role in Outlander.
Where to watch Ellis – Channel 5
The Northern Ireland-filmed Ellis is commissioned by British broadcaster Channel 5 and American streaming service Acorn TV.
Sebastian Cardwell, Deputy Chief Content Officer at Channel 5’s parent company, Paramount UK, said, “Ellis is a brilliant addition to our scripted slate, and we are thrilled to be working with the teams at Acorn TV and Company Pictures on this gripping new series.
“I can’t wait to see the incredible Sharon D. Clarke bring DCI Ellis to life”.
Cardwell’s sentiments were echoed by Acorn TV Managing Director Catherine Mackin, who said that Ellis “delivers on every note” that Acorn TV is known for.
Mackin added, “We are elated to have found our ideal DCI in the incomparable Sharon D. Clarke. And we are excited to work with both Channel 5 and Company Pictures again”.
