ITV has confirmed the start date for its brilliant new drama Maryland – in which Gentleman Jack star Suranne Jones leads the cast.
And, having already watched a preview of the series, we can confirm it’s well worth a watch. But don’t be confused by the name – it’s NOT in any way related to the BBC series of the same name which aired last this year.
So what is Maryland on ITV about, when’s the start date, and who else is in the cast opposite Suranne Jones?
Here’s everything you need to know.
What is the plot of Maryland on ITV?
Maryland on ITV focuses on the relationship between two sisters, who have drifted apart. Becca is a down-to-earth mother of two, while her sister Rosaline is a disciplined high-flyer. Complex family dynamics have driven the pair apart.
But, when the body of an older woman is discovered at sunrise on Laxey Beach in the Isle of Man, it brings devastating news for the sisters – it’s their mother.
Becca and Rosaline travel to the Isle of Man to repatriate the body of their mum, Mary, leaving their father Richard at home in Manchester. Confined on the island together, they discover shocking information about their mother…
Polly Hill, Head of ITV Drama, said: “Maryland is a beautifully moving story of two sisters. Suranne Jones developed the story, alongside Anne-Marie O’Connor, And it has been wonderful working with them and Monumental, to bring this story to screen.
“It has a wonderful cast lead by Suranne Jones and Eve Best and we are delighted that Sue Tully is directing.
“It promises to be a wonderful family drama for ITV.”
Who is in the cast of Maryland on ITVX alongside Suranne Jones?
ITV has lined up a stellar cast to join Suranne Jones in Maryland. Vigil actress Suranne stars as lead character Becca, a down-to-earth mother of two virtually estranged from her older sister.
Acclaimed actor Eve Best – aka Princess Rhaenys Targaryen in House of the Dragon – portrays sibling Rosaline.
Oscar nominated Stockard Channing will play the key role of Cathy, their mum’s larger-than-life, spiritual friend on the island. Of course, Grease fans will know her as Rizzo.
Ridley actor George Costigan portrays Becca and Rosaline’s father. Holby actor Hugh Quarshie joins the cast, as does The Walk-In star Dean Lennox Kelly, and Ackley Bridge’s Andrew Knott.
How many episodes is it?
Maryland is a new three-part ITV and ITVX drama. Suranne Jones created the drama from an original idea.
Maryland is screenwriter Anne-Marie O’Connor’s first UK drama commission.
Anne-Marie, creator of the comedy series Trollied is also the writer and executive producer of upcoming C4 comedy Hullraisers.
Maryland start date on ITVX: How to watch Suranne Jones drama?
ITVX has now confirmed a start date for Maryland.
You can watch it from Monday, May 22, 2023, at 9pm on ITV and ITVX.
Episode 2 will follow on Tuesday, May 23, with the final episode going out on Wednesday, May 24.
All episodes will be available on ITVX after the first episode.
Who directs Suranne Jones drama Maryland on ITVX?
Sue Tully directs Maryland on ITV. Her credits include Too Close, Line of Duty, Tin Star, The A Word, and The Musketeers.
She also directs Strike series 5.
Of course, we know Susan Tully as Michelle Fowler in EastEnders. Suranne Jones will also executive produce the drama which is a co-production with her company, Teamakers Productions.
Alison Owen, executive producer for Monumental, says: “We feel privileged and are thrilled that Suranne has entrusted us with this, her original idea, from which Anne-Marie has crafted a wonderful drama.”
Where is Maryland filmed?
Maryland is filming on location in Ireland.
However, the events are set on the Isle of Man, one of the British Isles, located in the Irish Sea off the northwest coast of England.
Read more: Suranne Jones issues emotional statement over Gentleman Jack news
Maryland starts on ITV1 and ITVX on Monday, May 22, 2023 at 9pm.
What’s your favourite Suranne Jones performance? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix.