ITV confirm ‘Nolly’ drama to air in December

The story of Noele Gordon in the three-part ITV drama ‘Nolly’ will air as part of the Christmas schedules of ITV1 and STV this year.

The episodes have been penned by BAFTA-winning writer Russell T Davies, who has given television viewers hits such as Queer as Folk, It’s A Sin, Cucumber and the revival of Doctor Who. Noele is played by BAFTA-winning performer Helena Bonham Carter CBE.

‘Nolly’ – Noele’s affectionate nickname – looks across the highs of her career as well as the massive shock of 1981 when she made the front pages of the UK newspapers following the announcement ATV had decided she was no longer required after 26 years.

Speaking to ITV News Helena noted:

“I think she probably was one of the most famous women in Britain. Not only was she the star of this hugely popular soap – Crossroads – but she also did quite a few pioneering things. I think a lot of women, professional women, owe her a lot for having ploughed the way.” She added, “You have to get it right. At the end of the day I’m not Noele Gordon I was just trying to capture a sort of essence and all that was appropriate to tell Russell’s story.”

 Last month writer Russell T Davies won a BAFTA Wales gong for the drama picking up the ‘Best Writer’ award for the production. ITV1 and STV will also broadcast The Real Nolly documentary alongside the drama.