Channel 4 has released the first look at I Am Helen, a new drama starring Bridgerton's Nicola Coughlan and Peaky Blinders' Joe Cole, which the network describes as 'deeply terrifying.' The latest installment of Dominic Savage's acclaimed anthology series explores the experience of womanhood within a world shaped by masculine power, aggression, and control.
Nicola Coughlan Takes the Lead Role
Nicola Coughlan plays the central role of Helen, while Joe Cole's character remains undisclosed but appears to portray her partner. First-look images show the pair seated on a bed, seemingly in conflict. The synopsis states the story is 'told through a female lens' and examines the pressures and expectations placed on women while confronting the realities of toxic masculinity and the damage it can create in modern relationships.
Award-Winning Anthology Series
I Am Helen follows three previous seasons that explored women's personal experiences through distinct stories. In 2023, Kate Winslet led the third season, I Am Ruth, which won two BAFTAs and received widespread critical acclaim. The series launched in 2019 with Vicky McClure in I Am Nicola, Samantha Morton in I Am Kirsty, and Gemma Chan in I Am Hannah. The second season featured Suranne Jones in I Am Victoria, Letitia Wright in I Am Danielle, and Lesley Manville in I Am Maria.
Nicola Coughlan's Excitement for the Role
When the season was initially revealed, Coughlan shared with her followers: '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.'
Fan Reactions to the First Look
After the first look dropped, fans expressed excitement online. 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.' Another remarked: 'Can't wait to see this. Two fantastic actors.' One viewer posted: 'I'm not sure I am ready to see Nicola Coughlan play a character that gets annoyed/harassed by a man for the first time. I think this might wreck me.' Another said: 'Aw heck, she's great but already I want to cry.'
Release Date
I Am Helen will air on Channel 4 later this year.
