Showtime and Sky Atlantic have announced a partnership for a six-episode limited series called Guerrilla written by Oscar winner John Ridley (American Crime, 12 Years a Slave) and starring Emmy nominee Idris Elba (Luther, Beasts of No Nation).
Guerrilla is described as a love story set against the backdrop of one of the most politically explosive times in U.K. history. It centers on a politically active couple whose relationship and values are tested when they liberate a political prisoner and form a radical underground cell in 1970s London. Their ultimate target becomes the Black Power Desk, a true-life, secretive counter-intelligence unit within Special Branch dedicated to crushing all forms of black activism.
Ridley will write the majority of the episodes and direct the first two installments. Ridley and Elba, whose role is being kept under wraps, will executive produce with Patrick Spence, Katie Swinden, Tracy Underwood and Michael McDonald. Fifty Fathoms, ABC Signature, Green Door Pictures and Stearns Castle Entertainment will produce. Production is slated to begin later this summer for a 2017 debut.
"It's been a long time desire of mine to collaborate with Mr. Ridley and his work here is nothing short of a masterclass in character building and storytelling. TV is in for a treat," said Elba.
Added Ridley: "I am both humbled by and impressed with Idris' passion toward bringing this story to life. I share his commitment for populating the culture with driven and complicated people of color, and believe we have great partners on the producorial level, and with our broadcasters Sky Atlantic and Showtime."
"We're excited to partner with our friends at Sky to bring a fascinating and unexplored story spearheaded by John and Idris, two major creative talents at the top of their game," said David Nevins, President and CEO, Showtime. "Guerilla will surely keep our audience at the edge of their seats."
