Jack O'Connell is set to lead a new BBC series about the founding members of the Special Air Service (SAS). The drama, titled SAS: Rogue Heroes, is written by Steven Knight, creator of Peaky Blinders, and based on Ben Macintyre's 2016 book of the same name.
The series will focus on the elite commando unit formed during World War II under Winston Churchill's directive for 'butcher and bolt' tactics. O'Connell will portray Paddy Mayne, one of the original SAS members, whose exploits included destroying 47 aircraft in a single raid.
Joining O'Connell in the cast are Alfie Allen (Game of Thrones), Connor Swindells (Sex Education), and newcomer Jacob McCarthy. The series will be directed by Tom Shankland, known for his work on The Serpent.
O'Connell, 30, brings a ruggedness suited to the role of Mayne. He recently filmed another BBC mini-series, The North Water, set on a 19th-century whaling ship, which required filming in harsh Arctic conditions.
