Channel 4 has released a first look at the latest instalment of Dominic Savage's acclaimed I Am series, titled I Am Helen, starring Bridgerton's Nicola Coughlan and Peaky Blinders' Joe Cole. The drama has been described as "deeply terrifying" by early viewers.
Cast and Characters
Nicola Coughlan takes the lead role as Helen, while Joe Cole's character is yet to be officially confirmed. However, promotional images suggest he plays Helen's partner, depicting the pair in a heated exchange on a bed.
The series is created, written, and directed by Dominic Savage. The official synopsis explains that the story "examines the pressures and expectations placed on women while confronting the realities of toxic masculinity and the damage it can create in modern relationships." The narrative is told through a female lens, exploring the "experience of womanhood within a world shaped by masculine power, aggression, and control."
Series Background
I Am Helen is the fourth instalment in the anthology series. The first season in 2019 featured Vicky McClure in I Am Nicola, Samantha Morton in I Am Kirsty, and Gemma Chan in I Am Hannah. The second season included Suranne Jones in I Am Victoria, Letitia Wright in I Am Danielle, and Lesley Manville in I Am Maria. The third season, I Am Ruth (2023), starred Kate Winslet and won two BAFTAs, receiving widespread critical acclaim.
Nicola Coughlan's Reaction
When the project was first announced, Coughlan said: "It's an absolute honour to be part of telling the next I Am story alongside Dominic Savage – a singular talent and a storyteller deeply committed to exploring the breadth of the female experience. To follow in the footsteps of the brilliant women who've collaborated with him on this series feels truly surreal, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be embarking on this journey."
Social Media Reaction
Fans have expressed excitement on social media. One wrote: "I'm so excited to watch Nicola portraying this theme about the manosphere." Another commented: "Ahhh! ! I can't wait to watch this next instalment! I already know it's going to break my heart in the best way." A third added: "Most excited! I know Nicola is going to slay me." Others praised the casting, with one saying: "Can't wait to see this. Two fantastic actors."
I Am Helen is set to air on Channel 4 later this year.
