Fresh from his stint on the Strictly Come Dancing dancefloor, actor Lewis Cope is set to make a dramatic return to television screens. The former Emmerdale star has been confirmed as part of the cast for a major new Channel 5 series, Forever Home.
From the Ballroom to a Dark Drama
The 30-year-old performer, who captivated audiences last year alongside professional dancer Katya Jones on the BBC's flagship show, will now take on a role in the six-part adaptation. Cope, best known for playing Nicky Milligan in ITV's Emmerdale until his 2024 exit, saw his Strictly journey conclude during Musicals Week, just shy of the Glitterball Trophy.
His new project, however, promises a starkly different tone. Forever Home is based on the bestselling novel of the same name by broadcaster and author Graham Norton. The story delves into a chilling domestic mystery, centring on a second wife named Carol who makes a horrifying discovery in her basement.
A Sinister Plot and Stellar Cast
The official synopsis sets a dark scene: "When Carol discovers a long-dead body hidden in the basement of her home, the horrific realisation is undeniable – she's living with a killer." The narrative unravels the lie that her husband's first wife simply ran away, revealing a web of dark family secrets.
Cope joins an impressive ensemble cast for the series. The line-up includes:
- Amy Nuttall (Downton Abbey)
- Douglas Henshall (Shetland)
- Denise Welch (Loose Women)
- Samantha Bond (The Inheritance)
- Kevin Whately
- Jenny Walser
- Shane Zaza
- James Baxter
Production Details and Creative Vision
While an exact release date is yet to be announced, the drama is scheduled to air on Channel 5 in 2026. Filming is set to begin in Northumberland in 2025, continuing the broadcaster's commitment to regional production.
Graham Norton expressed his delight at seeing his novel adapted, noting it evolved into a "funny, twisted, 'dark-romp' full of farcical scenes." He added that it was wonderful to see "the depth and richness of Carol's story realized as a screenplay."
Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor at Channel 5, said: "We're delighted to partner with FilmNation and The Mediapro Studio to bring Graham Norton's compelling novel to UK screens, supported by an outstanding cast. Working with North East Screen again to champion local filming has been a pleasure."
