BEST INTERESTS: MICHAEL SHEEN AND SHARON HORGAN STAR IN NEW BBC DRAMA

Best Interests is a compelling, thought-provoking original drama from Bafta-winning writer Jack Thorne (His Dark Materials, The Virtues, National Treasure) for BBC One.

This is a story of a family driven apart by having to make choices no parent would ever want to make. Andrew (Michael Sheen) and Nicci (Sharon Horgan)’s daughter, Marnie, has a life-threatening condition.

The doctors believe it is in her best interests to be allowed to die, but her loving family disagree. And so begins a fight that will take them through every stage of a legal process, as they struggle to contemplate this huge decision.

Additional cast include Noma Dumezweni (The Undoing) as Samantha, Chizzy Akudolu (Holby City) as Mercy, Des McAleer (Hope Street) as Eddie, Mat Fraser (His Dark Materials) as Greg, Gary Beadle (Grantchester) as Frank, Jack Morris (Strike) as Tom, Pippa Haywood (Bodyguard) as Judge Spottiswood, Shane Zaza (Happy Valley) as Fred, Lucian Msamati (Gangs Of London) as Derek and Lisa McGrillis (Mum) as Brenda.

Jack Thorne, Writer, says: "As a parent of a three year old I've looked at the cases in the media about 'best interests' with some fascination and a little dread. When the worst happens, how do you keep your head when everything around you feels wrong?..

"We are going to try and tell a nuanced story that talks about this issue from all sides. I'm so happy to be working with Piers Wenger and the BBC again and to be part of the great folk at Chapter One Pictures. "

Sharon Horgan said: "Best Interests broke me when I first read the script. It’s a big subject but it’s in safe hands. I’m thrilled to be working on this story."

Michael Sheen added: "Jack Thorne has approached this incredibly important subject with humanity, honesty and humour. I feel fortunate to be part of it."

Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama, says: “This heart-breaking story delves deep into the inner turmoil these two parents experience when faced with their worst nightmare. Jack Thorne’s talent for tackling the most complex and challenging real life stories with consideration, wisdom and vision will make this a series to remember.”

Sophie Gardiner, Managing Director of Chapter One Pictures, says: “We are delighted and proud that the first commission for Chapter One Pictures is a Jack Thorne project of such calibre, and thrilled for it to be on BBC One. Jack writes these important stories of our time with such compassion, wit and intelligence; it’ll be a privilege for us to help bring it to life.”

Best Interests (4x60') will air later this year on BBC One and iPlayer.