Filming has commenced on Ralph & Katie, a new BBC One drama co-produced for the BBC by ITV Studios and Keshet Productions, in association with Tiger Aspect.
The series, which will run for six 30-minute episodes, is a spin-off of The A Word which ran from 2016 to 2020, and follows the story of Ralph and Katie Wilson – a couple with Down’s Syndrome facing the issues of all newlyweds. It will be available on BBC One and iPlayer later in 2022.
Space Studios, Gorton, is hosting the filming of the series alongside locations in the Lake District. Ralph & Katie is created by Peter Bowker, who was also lead writer on The A Word, accompanied by a team of new and emerging disabled writers, chosen in partnership with BBC Writersroom.
Ralph is played by Leon Harrop with Katie portrayed by Sarah Gordy, along with Pooky Quesnel, who plays Louise – Ralph’s mum. Matt Greenwood, who appeared in Bohemian Rhapsody, returns as Tom for the series – while Craig Cash will play Brian, along with Sam Retford of Screw and Ackley Bridge as Gary, and Daniel Cerqueira (Pennyworth) as Dr Graves.
Peter Bowker said: “The writing team have delivered a series of scripts that are full of joy, humour and authenticity. It will be exciting to see the wonderful cast bring them to life under the direction of the force of nature that is Jordan Hogg.”
ITV Studios and BBC Drama have also teamed up with the TripleC Disabled Artists Networking Community (DANC) to provide behind-the-scenes access to Ralph & Katie for those interested in high-end TV production, offered to D/deaf, disabled, autistic and neurodivergent talent in the North West at an early career stage.
Paid trainees have also been recruited in departments including casting, production, costume, and EPK.
