Joseph Fiennes' Dear England becomes four-part BBC series
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 9
Joseph Fiennes' Dear England becomes four-part BBC series
12 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 9
The adaptation, written by James Graham and directed by Rupert Goold, stars Fiennes reprising Gareth Southgate and will air on BBC One and iPlayer later this month.
It retells Southgate's transformation of England men's football team after his 1996 penalty miss, exploring mental health, racism, pressure and the squad's use of psychology and journalling.
Fiennes said the screen version is framed more as drama than the National Theatre play, while retaining its political edge around abuse of Black players and support from government.
How does Gareth Southgate feel about Fiennes’ portrayal of his most personal and professional struggles?
Joseph Fiennes works with his nephew, but will he and his famous brother Ralph ever share the screen?
With the UK's new Vapes Act now law, has Joseph Fiennes softened his criticism of the government?
"Dear England" on BBC: Inside the Acclaimed Drama Series on Gareth Southgate and the Evolution of English Football
Overview
Dear England is a four-part BBC drama series commissioned by Lindsay Salt and written by James Graham, who also serves as executive producer. The show brings Gareth Southgate’s inspiring 'quiet revolution' as England football manager to the screen, exploring themes of redemption, resilience, kindness, and compassion. With a world-class cast and creative team, the series aims to resonate with audiences interested in sport and human resilience. Its potential broadcast could align with the 2026 World Cup, capitalizing on heightened national interest in football and underscoring its anticipated cultural significance in the UK.