ITV levels with new drama

UK commercial broadcaster ITV has ordered a six-part crime drama from independent prodco Hillbilly Television.

The Level, penned by Gaby Chiappe and Alex Perrin, follows a female detective whose police career spirals into decline when she gets involved in organised crime.

It marks Hillbilly’s first commission for ITV and filming begins in London and Brighton this spring.

The series was commissioned by ITV drama director Steve November and drama controller Victoria Fea.

Hillbilly Television joint MDs Polly Leys and Kate Norrish are exec producing, with Jane Dauncey producing and Andy Goddard attached as lead director. DRG is distributing the drama internationally.

In related news, ITV is looking to pilot an entertainment programme based on the boardgame Scrabble.

The broadcaster has been looking to make a TV version of the popular game since picking up the rights from Mattel in 2009.

It will record two episodes of the show this month, with NBC Universal International Studios-owned Chocolate Media producing. NBC is also piloting gameshow QuizUp for ITV.