LONDON, Aug. 17, 2025
Groundbreaking British Drama Series “Play for Today” Revived to Champion New Talent
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The influential anthology series that launched careers is returning to provide opportunities for emerging writers, actors, and producers from lower-income backgrounds.
- “Play for Today,” a landmark British television series known for social realism, is being revived.
- The revival aims to provide pathways into television for young talent from less privileged backgrounds.
- The initial productions will tackle contemporary issues, featuring established stars.
- The original series ran on BBC One from 1970 to 1984, showcasing controversial and impactful dramas.
Channel 5 is bringing back “Play for Today,” an iconic British television series celebrated for its unflinching look at societal issues and its role in launching the careers of stars like Ray Winstone, Helen Mirren, and Dennis Potter.
The revived series is designed to offer a crucial entry point into television for young writers, actors, and producers from lower-income backgrounds, with established talent lending their support.
Originally a BBC One anthology drama that aired from 1970 to 1984, “Play for Today” was created to challenge the status quo. It gained renown for bringing acclaimed productions such as “Abigail’s Party” and “Rumpole of the Bailey” to the forefront.
The series featured over 300 productions, with “Scum,” a harrowing prison drama starring Ray Winstone, becoming its most controversial. The film was so potent that it was banned from broadcast and later adapted into a feature film.
New Stories, Old Spirit
The first four productions in the revived “Play for Today” slate will continue the tradition of politically charged social realism. Themes explored will include a school in special measures, celebrity and historical abuse, and issues surrounding aging and finances.
The revived series boasts appearances from well-known actors including Anita Dobson, Nigel Havers, Sue Johnston, and Alan Davies.
Championing Emerging Talent
Paul Testar, commissioning editor at Channel 5, stated that “Play for Today” is “synonymous with high-quality standalone television dramas.” He believes the revival will help “shape the future of British drama” by creating opportunities for emerging talent both in front of and behind the camera, particularly for those from lower-income backgrounds.
Anita Dobson, who stars in a drama titled “Never Too Late,” focused on aging, rebellion, and independence, shared her enthusiasm. “I hope it makes lots of people feel positive and hopeful that life is never over until the last bell rings,” she said, emphasizing the importance of hearing older voices.
Dobson lauded Channel 5 for “teaching people new skills” and praised the young crew she worked with. “The joy they brought to work was just fantastic. They were willing; they were eager. Nothing was too much trouble,” she added.
- The revival aims to support talent from lower-income backgrounds, mirroring the original series’ impact on careers.
- Channel 5 is increasing its original drama output, with over 100 hours planned for this year.
- The first new “Play for Today” episode is set to air later this year.
Channel 5’s Growing Drama Slate
While TV dramas have become more elaborate and costly, Channel 5 has garnered praise for its audience engagement with homegrown series like “All Creatures Great and Small” and “The Hardacres.” The broadcaster plans to air more than 100 hours of original drama this year, a significant increase from previous years.
Ben Frow, Channel 5’s chief content officer, highlighted the revival’s dual purpose: demonstrating the broadcaster’s commitment to public service and tackling important societal issues. He noted the parallels between the original “Play for Today’s” role in establishing careers and the revival’s ambition to do the same, with a focus on talent from less privileged backgrounds.
The first installment of the new “Play for Today” series is scheduled to premiere later this year.
