Meghann Fahy, Matthew Barry & Susanne Bier
Straight from a press release comes word of a new limited series in the works for HBO. The known details regarding THE TRIAL OF LOUISE WOODWARD are as follows:
HBO has ordered a five-episode limited series THE TRIAL OF LOUISE WOODWARD, starring two-time Emmy nominee Meghann Fahy (Daphne in Season 2 of HBO’s THE WHITE LOTUS). Academy and Emmy Award winning director Susanne Bier (Practical Magic 2, The Night Manager) will executive produce and direct all episodes. The series hails from showrunner, writer, and executive producer Matthew Barry (HBO’s INDUSTRY). Big Light Productions founder Frank Spotnitz will serve as executive producer alongside Emily Feller, Tobi de Graaff, Antoine Douaihy, and Anton TV. Production on the new series, which is based on a true story, will begin this August with an expected 2027 release.
The plot?
The series tells the shocking true story of how, in 1997, an 18-year-old British au pair was accused of shaking to death a baby left in her care by her American host family, setting off an international media firestorm as the trial unfolds in full view of both the British and American public.
Sounds like a serious piece of drama. Here is what HBO had to say about the project and its talent.
Francesca Orsi, Executive Vice President, HBO Programming, Head of HBO Drama Series and Films, quote: “We are thrilled to partner with Matthew Barry and Susanne Bier on this new series and to welcome Meghann Fahy back to the HBO family. Matthew’s compassionate approach to this gripping true story, paired with Susanne’s powerfully distinct directorial vision and Meghann’s exceptional talent, has brought together an extraordinary creative team whose work we’re excited to share with our audience soon.”
Matthew Barry, showrunner, writer, and executive producer, quote: “The trial of Louise Woodward raised profound questions about childcare, working mothers, class, and the role of an emerging 24/7 media. Thirty years later, those questions feel more urgent and relevant than ever. I’m grateful to be working with Susanne and our partners at HBO to bring this story, in all its complexity, to the screen.”
This will be one to look out for in 2027. We will keep you posted.
