Crookhaven, a brand-new drama for BBC One and CBBC, has just shared a first look teaser and another look at its exciting cast and their characters, including Julie Hesmondhalgh (Mr Bates vs The Post Office, Broadchurch) and Dougray Scott (Vigil).
It’s been revealed that Crookhaven – a story set in a secret school for crooks – “flips the high school genre on its head with a gripping, morally complex, twisty mystery rooted in identity, loyalty and found family”.
The series is based on the popular set of books by author JJ Arcanjo, the first of which has been noted as being one of The Sunday Times’ best books for children in 2023 (via Amazon), and the BBC has described the adaptation as “essential viewing for the whole family”.
Crookhaven has been created for television by Justin Young, whose previous credits include Death in Paradise, Sanditon, and Ripper Street.
The cast also includes Keith Allen (Marcella) and Claire Forlani (Industry), with an ensemble that features Amari Bacchus (Adolescence), Leila Khan (Heartstopper), Naomi Wirthner (Slow Horses), Genesis Lynea (Silent Witness) and Arthur Darvill (Doctor Who).
BBC Studios
BBC Studios
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It was previously revealed that Dougray Scott will take on the role of Caspian Lockett, the headmaster and leader of Crookhaven school, while Keith Allen will play its Head of Security.
The central character of Gabriel will be played by Lucas Leach (FBI International), while Carmel Laniado (The Witcher) will take on the role of his rival – and the headmaster’s daughter – Penelope.
The Crookhaven series will follow “a group of eight very different, young international students as they go head to head in the competition for the infamous Crooked Cup – all while battling a terrifying enemy, The Nameless”, the BBC synopsis has revealed.
BBC Studios
Sarah Muller, Senior Head of Commissioning 7+, BBC Children’s and Education said: “Crookhaven is a brilliant example of the rich homegrown storytelling we’re so proud to champion at the BBC. Its gripping mystery and standout cast make it a series designed to spark imaginations of all ages.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring this to BBC One, CBBC and iPlayer later this spring, and we know it will be a show families will love watching together.”
Crookhaven is coming to BBC One, CBBC and BBC iPlayer, a release date has not been announced.
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TV Editor, Digital Spy Laura has been watching television for over 30 years and professionally writing about entertainment for almost 10 of those. Â Previously at LOOK and now heading up the TV desk at the UK’s biggest TV and movies site Digital Spy, Laura has helped steer conversations around some of the most popular shows on the box. Laura has appeared on Channel 5 News and radio to talk viewing habits and TV recommendations. Â As well as putting her nerd-level Buffy knowledge to good use during an IRL meet with Sarah Michelle Gellar, Laura also once had afternoon tea with One Direction, has sat around the fire pit of the Love Island villa, spoken to Sir David Attenborough about the world’s oceans and even interviewed Rylan from inside the Big Brother house (housemate status, forever pending).Â