National Treasure Confirms Cast

Channel 4 has confirmed the cast for its new four-part drama National Treasure.

The series, which is written by BAFTA-winner Jack Thorne, will explore truth, memory, trust and family after a fictional, but much-loved public figure is accused of historic sexual offences.

BAFTA-winner Robbie Coltrane (Cracker, Harry Potter) will play Paul Finchley, one half of a much-loved comedy double act whose career has spanned several decades. While not as successful as he once was, he is still recognised on the street, but when he is faced of accusations of historic sexual offences from the 1990s, his life begins to unravel.

Julie Walters (Brooklyn, Harry Potter) and BAFTA- and Golden Globe-winner has been cast as Paul's wife, Marie. Married for more than 40 years, she is a strong woman who has supported her husband throughout his career, despite some tough times. As the investigation unfolds, Marie has to ask herself if the man she has spent her life with, is different to the man she thought she married.

BAFTA-nominated Andrea Riseborough (Birdman) plays Dee, Paul's daughter. She is troubled and a recovering addict, but as the accusations levelled against her father threaten her recovery, the public and private fallout of the case only adds to the difficulties she faces.

As the investigation and criminal trial work towards a verdict, doubts emerge, loyalties are tested, and truths, half-truths and lies are all unveiled.

Filming on National Treasure is expected to begin in February, with the series airing on Channel 4 later this year.

The series has been commissioned by Piers Wenger, Channel 4 Head of Drama, with Beth Willis and Roberto Troni. It is written by Jack Thorne, and is being produced by new production company The Forge. George Ormond and George Faber are the executive producers. The series is directed by Marc Munden.

Jack Thorne said: "It is truly incredible to work with actors of this extraordinary calibre. I've had such an amazing time in rehearsals watching Marc working with them. I can't wait for shooting to start."

George Faber, co-executive producer, added: "It's the quality of Jack Thorne's script that's attracted such a stellar cast (Robbie Coltrane, Julie Walters, Andrea Riseborough). Our drama tackles the complex relationship between celebrity, sex and power and it needed Britain's finest acting talent to do it justice."

Piers Wenger, Channel 4 Head of Drama, commented: "Jack has created three incredibly nuanced characters in Paul, Marie and Dee and I can't envision anyone better to tackle this challenging and fascinating piece than Robbie, Julie and Andrea. We're delighted to have such universally respected and distinguished talent on board for this project and I can't wait to see them bring to life this timely and perceptive drama."

www.channel4.com

(JP/MH)