Toheeb Jimoh and Dujonna Gift to lead new BBC One drama Open Water

An adaptation of Caleb Azumah Nelson’s debut novel.

BBC One's eight-part adaptation of Caleb Azumah Nelson’s debut novel Open Water, was announced back in December 2024, and today the BBC has finally given an update on the series, with news that Toheeb Jimoh and Dujonna Gift will star in the lead roles of Marcus and Effie as filming gets underway in Birmingham and London.

Marcus works in retail while trying to develop a career as a photographer. Effie is studying dance at university in Dublin. From the moment they meet, they feel an immediate, undeniable connection. But, as Marcus soon learns, Effie is in a relationship with Marcus’ friend Samuel. It’s a boundary that Marcus is unwilling to cross. A shared project, photographing and documenting Black creatives in London, draws them into each other’s orbit, but can their burgeoning friendship resist the pull of desire?

They seem destined for each other, their crush evolving into a love that is ocean deep. But love is never enough, and their path towards one another is treacherous. Will they sink or swim in open water?

Tender, intimate and deeply romantic, Open Water is a heartfelt exploration of love, identity and belonging, told with warmth, honesty and emotional depth.

On joining Open Water, Toheeb Jimoh said "This is a dream project for me. I fell in love with Marcus and Caleb’s story immediately. It’s such a sensitive, character rich, love story, delicately told and full of all the details of the south London I grew up in. It’s such an honour to be a part of this team and I can’t wait to share this one with you all."

To which Dujonna Gift added "There are certain roles that remind you why you once fell in love with storytelling and for me, this is one of them. To be able to step into Effie’s shoes and to bring a South London love story to screen, a story that many people already have been able to fall in love with, that is deeply rooted in the communities that shaped me is such an honour. I cannot wait for everyone to experience this new life of Caleb’s beautiful writing and for us all to swim with Effie & Marcus"

Other cast members include Rhianna Dorris, Lamar Waves, Nadine Marshall, Henrietta Pearl Quartey, Hope Ikpoku Jnr, Sekou Diaby, Tara Tijani, Enva Lewis, Nash Nørgaard, Stevie Odu, Renee Bailey, Jayden Fowora Knight, Janina Elkin, Sherise Blackman, Matthew Dunster, Neve McDonnell, Javier Bonaparte, Beaux Bryant and Mo Sesay.

Spealking about today's casting news, Caleb Azumah Nelson said "The process of bringing Open Water from page to screen has been amazing, and I’ve found some truly outstanding collaborators. We rarely see love stories like this and everyone, from crew to cast, has put their whole heart into this production to make it happen. I can’t wait to share what we’ve been working on."

To which the BBC's Director of Drama, Lindsay Salt, adde "Open Water is a deeply romantic and beautifully observed story that has captivated readers around the world. With Caleb at the helm, and Toheeb and Dujonna leading a brilliant cast, we're thrilled to bring this powerful and distinctive love story to BBC audiences."

And Tally Garner (Mam Tor) and Matimba Kabalika (B-Side) jointly said "In Caleb’s gorgeous vision for Open Water, Toheeb and Dujonna are electric as Marcus and Effie. Supported by an absolutely stellar cast, we are incredibly excited to see them bring all these wonderful characters to life."

Made by Mam Tor Productions (a Banijay UK company) and B-Side Productions, Open Water is written and directed by Caleb Azumah Nelson, produced by Karlvyn Dove and acclaimed composer and musician Cassie Kinoshi will create an original score.

It'll be executive produced by Tally Garner for Mam Tor Productions, Matimba Kabalika for B-Side Productions, Rebecca Ferguson for the BBC and Caleb Azumah Nelson.

In a statment today, the BBC said "The Open Water team would like to pay tribute to Danielle Scott-Haughton, who was an executive producer for the BBC on the series before her passing. A passionate advocate for the project, Danielle brought warmth, creativity and unwavering support throughout its development. Her contribution to the drama was significant and she is remembered with great affection by everyone who had the privilege of working with her."

Open Water will air on BBC One