Suranne Jones says the idea for her new drama, Maryland, was inspired by her dreams - and that she 'manifested' working with a film star from 70s musical hit Grease on the project.
The three-part series will air on Monday, May 22 on ITV1 at 9pm. It follows semi-estranged sisters Becca and Rosaline, who are forced to reconnect following the discovery of their mother’s body on the Isle of Man.
On arrival, they uncover the shocking news that she had another life that they knew nothing about. Appearing on the BBC's The One Show on Tuesday night (May 16), the Vigil star shared how her dreams helped shape the drama.
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Following a particular dream, she wrote down the words 'sisters, house, double life.' She added: "The logistics of a double life has always fascinated me - like how do people do it and get away with it."
Screenwriter Anne-Marie O'Connor soon got involved, with Suranne adding that they shared the same views on family relationships and the project 'went from there.'
The drama stars Suranne as Becca and House of the Dragon's Eve Best as Rosaline. Gavin and Stacey's Andrew Knott plays Becca's husband Andrew, while Happy Valley's George Costigan is the girl's dad, Richard.
Making a cameo is film star Stockard Channing, who played the role of Rizzo in blockbuster Grease. Stockard will play 70-year-old Cathy, who appears from the first episode - but Suranne was sure to keep some details under wraps.
On the collaboration, Suranne says while the project has a casting director, she also 'manifested' Stockard, adding: "If I don't sound too mad for saying that."
She described Cathy's character as 'rock and roll' and thought Stockard would be 'amazing' for the role. Suranne said she 'still can't quite get over' that she accepted the role after it was put to her by the casting director.
Maryland begins on ITV1 at 9pm on Monday, May 22, while all episodes will be available to stream on ITVX. Episodes two and three will air on Tuesday, May 23 and Wednesday, May 24 respectively.
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