The North East Production Fund is supporting new Sheridan Smith drama, I Fought The Law.
The ITV and Hera Pictures drama is being filmed in Teesside this summer.
The real-life story is about a mother, who’s determined to change the Double Jeopardy Law, and see her daughter’s murderer brought to justice.
Written by Jamie Crichton (All Creatures Great and Small, The Last Kingdom, Grantchester) the series recounts how mother of three, Ann Ming, battled for 15 years so that her daughter’s murderer could face justice, having been controversially acquitted following two mistrials.
“I am very pleased that Hera Pictures will tell the story of my campaign to overturn the Double Jeopardy Law,” said Ming, who will act as consultant throughout the production process.
“My daughter’s killer was wrongfully acquitted, and a number of years later confessed to her murder, for which he could only be prosecuted for perjury due to the 800-year-old Double Jeopardy Law. I wasn’t going to let this stand in my way of getting justice for Julie. I’m overwhelmed that Sheridan Smith will be playing me. Having such an iconic and talented actress portray me is truly wonderful.”
The four-part series has been commissioned for ITV by Head of Drama, Polly Hill and Senior Drama Commissioner Helen Ziegler.
It’s based on Ming’s book For The Love of Julie.
“As soon as I heard Ann’s story, of her iron resolve and unbelievable courage to see justice done in the face of adversity, I knew this was one that had to be told,” said Screenwriter, Jamie Crichton.
“Ann is a shining beacon of what can be achieved if you stop at nothing to make your voice heard. In an age when it’s all too easy to feel helpless, we need more Ann Mings in the world.”
Hera Pictures (Mary & George, What It Feels Like For A Girl, Hamnet, Temple, Honour) will produce the series with Executive Producers Liza Marshall and Charlotte Webber at the helm.
“I am so honoured to have been asked to play the role of Ann Ming,” added Sheridan Smith.
“She is a truly courageous and remarkable woman to whom we all owe a debt of gratitude.”
I Fought The Law will air on ITV1 and ITVX.
Gayle Woodruffe, North East Screen’s Operations Director, said:
“Supporting I Fought the Law via the North East Production Fund reaffirms our commitment to ensuring more North East stories of global appeal appear on screen.
“We’re delighted to be supporting the team at Hera Pictures and are looking forward to seeing Jamie’s scripts bring Ann’s incredible story of courage in the face of adversity to life.”
