The show, adapted from the French series Astrid and Raphaelle, stars Laura Fraser and Ella Maisy Purvis.
Channel 4 have announced a new police crime series, Patience, from Eagle Eye Drama (Professor T).
The six-part drama follows the story of a young autistic woman who’s a self-taught criminologist. Ella Maisy Purvis (Malpractice) is Patience Evans, while Laura Fraser (Breaking Bad, Crime) plays Detective Bea Metcalf.
Here’s what Channel 4 have to say about Patience:
Patience Evans works in the criminal records department of Yorkshire Police, cataloguing and filing the evidence produced during major cases. A young autistic woman, she craves routine and order, relishing the solitude and structure her job provides but she yearns for more. A brilliant, self-taught criminologist, Patience has an instinctive eye for crime scenes and a passion for problem-solving.
Detective Bea Metcalf is the first person to spot and utilize her talent, which opens a door into a whole new world for Patience. Patience attends a regular support group for autistic adults where they discuss the barriers in operating in a neuro-typical world and how best to navigate it.
All neuro-divergent characters within the series will be played by neuro-diverse actors, including the title role of Patience.
Matt Baker (Suspect) leads the show’s writing team, with Stephen Brady (Professor T), Sarah Freethy (The Porcelain Maker) and Daniella DeVinter (Before We Die), all of whom have personal experience relating to autism.
The series’ director is Maarten Moerkerke (13 Commandments). Jo McGrath and Walter Iuzzolino executive produce for Eagle Eye Drama.
Laura Fraser says:
“Patience is full of intriguing mysteries and unusual crimes, but also looks at detective Bea Metcalf’s working relationship with a young woman who experiences life in a different way to her own, and also the friendship that develops between them.”
Ella Maisy Purvis, says:
“I’m incredibly honoured to bring Patience Evans to life in this ground-breaking drama. Audiences can look forward to an authentic representation of a young autistic woman that is written with nuance and detail, but also that challenges the norms of the neuro-typical world. Patience is a character full of depth, intelligence, and an unwavering passion for justice, and I can’t wait for viewers to join her on this thrilling journey.”
Patience is adapted from the original hit French series Astrid and Raphaelle and is a co-production of JLA Productions. The series is produced in association with Happy Duck Films and supported by the Belgian Tax Shelter. Filming took place in both York and Belgium.
Channel 4 promise transmission details in due course – we’ll keep you posted.