The four-part drama by Jack Thorne is about a family driven apart by having to make choices no parent would ever want to make.
Best Interests promises to be a compelling, thought-provoking fictional drama with Sharon Horgan and Michael Sheen playing parents married couple Nicci and Andrew who have two daughters, Katie played by Alison Oliver and Marnie played by Niamh Moriarty.
Marnie has a life-threatening condition and the doctors believe it is in her best interests to be allowed to die. But her loving family disagree. And so begins a fight that will take them through every stage of a legal process, as they struggle to contemplate this huge decision. Who decides? And in whose best interests will it be?
Speaking about Best Interests, Sharon Horgan said "Best Interests broke me when I first read the script and then again after talking with Jack about it. Covid seems to have shone a closer light on the desperate inequalities that exist for our disabled community so this felt very timely."
"It’s a big subject but it’s in Jack Thorne and Michael Keillor’s safe hands. I’m thrilled to be working on this story with a super talented cast, the wonderful Michael Sheen and Noma Dumezweni, and my gorgeous daughters; Alison Oliver and Niamh Moriarty."
To which Michael Sheen added "Jack Thorne is such an extraordinary writer and he has approached this incredibly important and urgent subject with humanity, honesty and humour. I feel very fortunate to be part of this production and to work with the brilliant Sharon Horgan and some of the most talented actors around."
Additional cast includes Noma Dumezweni as Samantha, Chizzy Akudolu as Mercy, Des McAleer as Eddie, Mat Fraser as Greg, Gary Beadle as Frank, Jack Morris as Tom, Pippa Haywood as Judge Spottiswood, Shane Zaza as Fred, Lucian Msamati as Derek and Lisa McGrillis as Brenda.
Writer Jack Thorne spoke about his latest project and said "Best Interests cases are both compelling and revealing. Our country has a very troubled relationship with disability and these cases put a spotlight on that. But our drama is first and foremost a love story and it needs incredible actors to bring it to life."
"Sharon Horgan and Michael Sheen lead a company of ridiculous talents that pull you into the most interesting of places. I'm so grateful to be working with them, Chapter One, Michael Keillor and a very brilliant crew.”
Filming is currently underway in London on the four-part drama which will be directed by Michael Keillor, produced by Jenny Frayn and executive produced by Sophie Gardiner for Chapter One Pictures, Toby Bentley and Jack Thorne for One Shoe Films and Lucy Richer for BBC One.
Best Interests will air in 2023 on BBC One