The BBC has released first-look images of its upcoming period drama California Avenue, sparking excitement among viewers who have declared they 'can't wait' for the series.
Star-Studded Cast
Set in the 1970s, the series follows a mother and child on the run and features an impressive cast led by Helena Bonham Carter, known for her role in The Crown, and Bill Nighy, famous for Love Actually. The BBC shared a series of images on Instagram showing the pair in character as former ballroom stars Jerry (Bill) and Eddie (Helena). Other cast members include Erin Doherty from Adolescence and Tom Burke from Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.
Additional cast includes Kate Robbins, Paul Kaye, and newcomer Cammie Liebreich. The series is set in a secluded canal-side caravan park deep in the English countryside.
Plot Synopsis
'Its peace is irrevocably disrupted by the arrival of Lela and her 11-year-old child, Bee, both on the run, looking for refuge in this hidden world,' said a synopsis. 'It is here that a fractured family will come together, ghosts of the past will firmly be put to rest and an unexpected love is forged.'
The series, which the BBC describes as 'a story brimming with humour and love,' sees Bill and Helena play the parents of Lela (Erin). They are ballroom champions of the 1930s who became wartime runaways and are still hiding three decades on. Tom plays fairground outcast Cooper, whose turbulent past will explode into California Avenue. Kate plays Priscilla, the 'formidable force' running the caravan site alongside her husband, site manager and jack-of-all-trades Kevin (Paul).
Viewer Reactions
Viewers expressed their anticipation after the BBC shared the sneak peek, with some posting messages on social media asking when the series is likely to air. 'Cast on this is incredible,' noted one person, while another agreed: 'The cast looks fantastic (though I was 'in' at Bill Nighy).' 'Absolutely can't wait for this,' said someone else, as another asked: 'When is it being added? Really looking forward to seeing this one.'
The series is created, written, and directed by BAFTA Award-winning writer and director Hugo Blick. California Avenue is set to air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
