BBC’s ‘surprising’ thriller set to be next obsession for Big Little Lies’ fans
The BBC has announced that filming has started on Wahala, a new six-part thriller
Wahala will appeal to fans of Big Little Lies(Image: HBO)
The BBC has issued an update on a forthcoming “gripping and surprising” thriller adapted from a bestselling novel.
The broadcaster has confirmed that production has commenced on Wahala, based on Nikki May’s debut book of the same title, featuring Adelayo Adedayo, Deborah Ayorinde, Cush Jumbo, Susan Wokoma and Nigerian actress Genevieve Nnaji.
The thriller centres on a circle of friends, with the narrative drawing comparisons to programmes including Big Little Lies and Sex and the City, reports the Mirror.
The six-episode series alternates between four Nigerian-British women in their thirties, juggling romance and professional lives in London, and their childhood residences, where “danger and mystery abound”.
“When dark secrets and even darker pasts threaten to shatter the lives of the women, they and their friendships are pushed to their limit,” the synopsis revealed.
Wahala chronicles best friends Simi, Boo and Ronke, whose existence is upended when Isobel (Deborah Ayorinde), a magnetic and wealthy newcomer, enters their circle.
“Trouble follows closely behind,” the synopsis states. “Tensions rise, loyalties fracture and long-buried truths surface, triggering a chain of events with shocking and tragic consequences.”
Cush, recognised for programmes including The Good Wife and The Good Fight, said she was “very excited to be part of this show and to bring this fantastic story to the screen”.
Adelayo Adedayo, known for her work in Some Girls, Timewasters, and The Responder, anticipated “a thrilling ride”, while Genevieve remarked: “I’m very happy to be joining Wahala and to be working with such a brilliant team.
“It’s an intriguing story and I’m excited to be a part of it.”
Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, commented: “Theresa’s scripts for Wahala are an absolute joy – riveting, full of rich and complex characters, and everything you’d want from Nikki May’s exquisite book brought vividly to life on screen.
“It’s no surprise that it’s attracted a cast of this magnificent calibre.”
BAFTA-nominated writer Theresa Ikoko has adapted the drama, with production handled by Firebird Pictures, part of BBC Studios, for BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
Wahala is set to air on the BBC.
