Sky Atlantic has got its sizeable chequebook out again, and has signed up some star names for its upcoming drama, Patrick Melrose (previously known as Melrose).

The show, that stars and is executive produced by Benedict Cumberbatch, is based on the semi-autobiographical novels by Edward St Aubyn. As the official announcements notes, “Patrick Melrose hilariously skewers the upper class as it tracks its protagonist’s harrowing journey from a deeply traumatic childhood through adult substance abuse and, ultimately, towards recovery”.

There will be five episodes of the programme, one for each novel, and the new cast additions are Jennifer Jason Leigh, Hugo Weaving and Anna Madeley. The former two will be playing the parents of Patrick, whilst Madeley takes on the role of his wife.

David Nicholls has handled the adaptation, and Edward Berger is directing.

Filming begins in London and the south of France in August. Showtime is co-producing.