Here’s a story we weren’t expecting to see today: the English grime star Stormzy has signed up to appear in BBC One’s adaptation of Malorie Blackman’s iconic novel Noughts + Crosses. Here’s everything we know about this surprising cultural crossover…

Stormzy, whose real name is Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr., will play a brand new character created for the series – a newspaper editor a named Kolawale.

In the official BBC announcement of the news, Stormzy said this: “As a diehard fan of Malorie’s novels, being a part of this important show is a dream come true.”

Blackman, the author of this hugely popular Young Adult novel, said this: “The first time I met Stormzy he informed me he was a huge fan of my Noughts and Crosses series of books. I’m thrilled he will now be a part of the Noughts + Crosses TV production. It’s so exciting!”

Preethi Mavahalli, who is executive producing this TV take on the book, added this: “As an icon of black British culture, we are honoured to have Stormzy play a part in this adaptation of a novel he’s such a fan of.”

And if you’re unfamiliar with Noughts + Crosses, here’s the Beeb’s description of the show: “A gripping story of first love in a dangerous, alternate world where racism divides society. Bafta Cymru winner Jack Rowan (Peaky Blinders, Born to Kill) will play Callum McGregor and newcomer Masali Baduza has been cast as Sephy Hadley. Other cast include Helen Baxendale, Paterson Joseph and Ian Hart.”

We’ll keep you posted as we hear more about this exciting production.