We're used to seeing her as the flawed detective in the hugely popular ITV series Marcella - but now, Anna Friel is set to take on a very different role, in a brand new ITV show.
Award-winning actress Anna is soon set to star in a poignant new drama, about a transgender boy named Max, who is determined to let the world know who he really is.
Penned by BAFTA award-winning screen-writer Tom Marchant, the description reveals that the show "follows the story of an 11-year-old boy, Max, who makes the huge decision that he wants to live life as a girl. He has always dressed as one at home, but now he doesn’t want to hide who he is.”
Anna is set to play Max's mother, Vicky, and will be joined by Emmett J. Scanlan, who will play the boy's father, Stephen.
What is ITV's Butterfly about?
Butterfly will see Max's parents, who separated when he was eight, endeavour to understand their child's evolution, with Vicky desparate to figure out how best to support Max becoming Maxine. Viewers will witness Stephen and Vicky struggle to agree on the best thing for their son, as he becomes female.
Although Stephen and Vicky are no longer together, ITV have said, "As Max’s conviction that he’s in the wrong body intensifies, his distress escalates, and Stephen seizes the opportunity to return to live at the family home and support his son."
Anna and Emmett will be joined by 14-year-old Millie Gibson, who will play their daughter, and Callum Booth-Ford, who will play Maxine.
Although the show is not yet on air, Emmett Scanlan has already praised the team for reflecting a reality for many people.
He said, "It’s basically a drama about ordinary people put into an extraordinary situation. The writing is so real, so relevant, so topical and so brave, which are the reasons why you get involved in projects like this.”
Who else is starring in ITV Butterfly?
Alison Steadman (Gavin and Stacey) will return to screens for the much-awaited drama, although it's not clear which role she will play in it.
Paula actor Sean McGinley will also star. Details about his role have not yet been confirmed either.
However, speculation suggests that the pair may star as Maxine's grandparents.
When does ITV's Butterfly start?
Filming began back in January, and wrapped in March. However, Butterfly won't actually air until later on this year.
ITV recently shared a preview of their upcoming ITV dramas however, which suggests it's definitely not far off.
The trailer has also given us a first glimpse into the powerful new show - and we have to say, it looks pretty great.
What do you think of Anna's upcoming series ITV Butterfly? Will you be tuning in to watch?
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