NEW PROJECT: Steve McQueen (PA)
BRITISH DIRECTOR Steve McQueen has revealed he is creating an “epic” television drama following the lives of a group of black British families, charting their fortunes and challenges from 1968 to the present day.
The 44-year-old film-maker, who has won wide acclaim for 12 Years A Slave and is expected to be nominated as best director at the Oscars, said his new project would be “epic in scope”.
The Shame director told the Daily Mail: “I don't think there has been a serious drama series in Britain with black people from all walks of life as the main protagonists.
“This isn't a black Our Friends in the North,” McQueen added in reference to a 1996 BBC series which told the story of four friends in Newcastle.
The London-born Hollywood director, whose stock has rocketed following the release of his slavery film starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Michael Fassbender, is making the TV series for the BBC.
The broadcaster’s drama controller Ben Shephenson confirmed McQueen’s involvement.
He said: “It is too early to announce the details, but it is incredibly exciting to be working with the hugely talented British director who has rapidly become one of the finest directors in the world”.