Channel 5, ITV Studios, Pernel, MK1 team up for David Suchet drama The Au Pair

L-R: David Suchet, Sally Bretton, Kenny Doughty and Ludmilla Makowski

The UK’s Channel 5 has partnered with French production company Pernel Media and Irish company MK1 Studios to produce drama series The Au Pair (4×60’).

The show is being produced by Pernel and MK1, in association with ITV Studios, which will handle global distribution. It is written by Michael Foott (Desperate Measures) and Andy Bayliss (The Good Ship Murder), directed by Oonagh Kearney (Vardy V Rooney) and series-produced by Cormac Fox (Animals). Canal+ Group has pre-bought the rights to the series in France.

The series, Paramount-owned Channel 5’s first scripted project from Pernel Media and the French prodco’s first English-language drama series commission in the UK, explores themes of family, trust and hidden truths set in the British countryside.

It stars Sir David Suchet, Sally Bretton, Kenny Doughty and Ludmilla Makowski in her UK television debut.

The story follows a woman who faces marital issues and increased pressure when her diabetic father moves next door. The arrival of a French au pair unsettles the household, revealing underlying tensions and secrets.

Sebastian Cardwell, Channel 5’s deputy chief content officer, said: “This is a truly international collaboration and we’re delighted to be working with Pernel Media for the first time on this gripping new drama.”

Pernel president Samuel Kissous added: “This series highlights Pernel Media’s ability to bring international partners such as ITV Studios, Canal+ Group and MK1 Studios together in order to deliver world-class drama.”

Julie Ryan, MD of MK1, noted the series focuses on a compelling female narrative and has the potential to engage viewers with suspense and emotional depth. “This series, centring around a strong female narrative, promises to captivate and intrigue viewers with its exceptional cast,” she said.