Birmingham Actress Claudia Jessie Secures Major Role in New Channel 4 Drama
Claudia Jessie, the Birmingham-born star celebrated for her role as Eloise in the hit Netflix series Bridgerton, has landed a leading part in Channel 4's forthcoming drama Up To No Good. This new project marks a significant departure from her period drama roots, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
A Dramatic Shift from Bridgerton to Dark Comedy
In Up To No Good, Jessie will portray Hannah, a young detective investigating a death in a building where the central character, Maud Oldcastle, resides. Maud is played by the legendary Glenn Close, described in press materials as a hilariously brusque, cantankerous, and ruthless older woman with a hidden past as a killer. The six-part series adapts Helen Tursten's short story collections, An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good and An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed, with scripts by playwrights Nina Raine and Moses Raine making their television writing debut as a duo.
The synopsis reveals that Maud is determined to break free from a lifetime of caring for her sister to claim a long-overdue second act. However, when Detective Hannah becomes suspicious, Maud is forced to confront her crimes, both past and present. This role contrasts sharply with Jessie's portrayal of Eloise Bridgerton, the quick-witted and defiant daughter who resists societal expectations in favor of intellectual pursuits.
Star-Studded Cast and Production Team
The ensemble cast features several notable actors, including:
- Gloria Obianyo from Andor as Astrid
- Anita Dobson of EastEnders fame as Elsa
- Ben Crompton, known for Game of Thrones, as Barry
- Meera Syal from The Wheel of Time as Margaret
- Penelope Wilton of Downton Abbey as Charlotte
Rebecca Holdsworth, Commissioning Editor for Drama at Channel 4, praised the series, stating, "Nina and Moses Raine's deliciously dark and witty world has drawn together a truly fantastic line-up. UP TO NO GOOD promises a bold, razor-sharp, and wickedly entertaining series that feels undoubtedly Channel 4."
Scott Huff, Joint Managing Director at Playground, added, "We are thrilled to have brought together this extraordinary group of artists. A cast of this calibre is a testament to the brilliant scripts and Glenn Close's legendary talent." Andrew Plotkin, EVP of Drama Development at Sony Pictures Television, also highlighted the direction by Lee Haven Jones, noting the collaboration elevates the storytelling.
Jessie's Excitement for Future Roles and Bridgerton Developments
While embracing this new challenge, Claudia Jessie continues to be involved with Bridgerton, where her character Eloise is set for future focus. In recent interviews, Jessie expressed enthusiasm for Eloise's potential evolution, suggesting a political or purpose-driven path distinct from the romantic arcs of other characters. She told RadioTimes.com, "I'm buzzing to one day do it. I love this show with my whole heart." Additionally, she hinted to Netflix Tudum about Eloise gaining a clear purpose beyond romance, reflecting her character's growth.
The current season of Bridgerton follows Benedict Bridgerton's quest and sets the stage for Eloise's storyline, with Jessie teasing that her character is trying to find her unique way in society. Based on Julia Quinn's novels and produced by Shonda Rhimes, the series has captivated audiences since its 2020 debut, exploring love stories across the Bridgerton family.
This new role in Up To No Good underscores Claudia Jessie's rising profile in the entertainment industry, blending her Birmingham roots with international acclaim. Fans can anticipate her performance in this darkly comedic drama, which promises to be a standout addition to Channel 4's lineup.
