Famous story reimagined for new generation

ITV has commissioned a new ten-part fantasy and sci-fi drama, Jekyll & Hyde.

The drama is inspired by The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and My Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson, and written and executive produced by acclaimed novelist Charlie Higson. Colin Teague (Being Human, The Town) will direct.

Set in 1930’s London, the drama will focus on the young, attractive, troubled hero, Robert Jekyll, the grandson of the original doctor. A newly qualified doctor living with his foster parents in India who knows nothing of his inherited condition, which is being treated with medication by his foster father, Dr Vishal Najaran.

Higson’s Jekyll is a young, sensitive and naïve man of intellect and morality, who slips between his two personas unwillingly.  Hyde is a totally different person; a confident, risk-taking superhero with super powers, great strength, speed and invulnerability. His self-destructive nature gets him into trouble, but who gets things done despite the consequences!

At the heart of the drama is Robert Jekyll’s quest to discover his real identity and the nature of his ‘curse’ and wrestling with his superhero alter ego.

Charlie Higson said: “It’s an exciting challenge to take Stevenson’s work and use it as the basis for a new Jekyll & Hyde, so many superheroes with secret dual personalities have been brought to life thanks to Jekyll & Hyde.  He’s one of literatures most important and influential characters and it’s a privilege to be rediscovering him.”

ITV’s Director of Drama Steve November said: “Charlie’s vivid and compelling scripts cleverly introduce a brilliant set of characters to a new generation of viewers. We’re thrilled to be commissioning Jekyll & Hyde for a modern day audience.”

Jekyll & Hyde will begin production in India in January 2015 and filming in London from February until July 2015. Casting will be announced in the near future.