The BBC and production company Sister have released first-look images from the upcoming legal drama series, The Split Up. This six-part show is set in the affluent divorce circuit of Manchester and will air on BBC One and the BBC iPlayer streaming service.
The series features an ensemble cast led by Ritu Arya, known for her role in The Umbrella Academy. Joining her are notable actors such as Sanjeev Bhaskar from Unforgotten, Aysha Kala (Virdee), Arian Nik (Film Club), Danny Ashok (Dinosaur), Dimitri Leonidas (Those About To Die), Mawaan Rizwan (Juice), Sindhu Vee (Matilda the Musical), Shalini Peiris (The White Lotus), and Tom Forbes (Queenie). Guest stars include Lenny Henry, Jane Horrocks, and Jameela Jamil.
Storyline and Themes
Created by Ursula Rani Sarma, the show is based on the original series The Split by Abi Morgan. The first-look images provide a glimpse into the world of the Kishan Law family, a prominent British-South Asian law firm that caters to Manchester’s elite.
At the core of the narrative is Aria Kishan, portrayed by Arya, who is on the verge of taking over the family business from her father, Dhruv Kishan (played by Bhaskar). The series explores the complexities of family dynamics, particularly after the death of Aria’s mother, which prompts Dhruv to reassess whether Aria is ready to lead the firm.
The synopsis indicates that Aria’s impending marriage to her long-term partner, Neal (Ashok), will face scrutiny as their personal and professional lives become increasingly intertwined. The arrival of a former flame, played by Dimitri Leonidas, adds further tension to the narrative.
Production and Creative Team
The executive production team includes Abi Morgan, Jane Featherstone, Bryony Arnold, and Nawfal Faizullah for the BBC, with Shamim Sarif serving as co-executive producer. Additional episodes are scripted by Sumerah Srivastav, Kaamil Shah, and Sonali Bhattacharyya.
The series is directed by Shamim Sarif, known for her work on You, alongside Khurrum M Sultan of Vera. Production is managed by Natasha Romaniuk, with Kasheina Vencatasawmy as associate producer. BBC Studios will oversee global sales for the series.
With its rich themes of family, ambition, and the challenges of personal relationships, The Split Up is poised to provide viewers with a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of high-stakes legal battles. The series is anticipated to resonate with audiences when it premieres, although a specific release date has yet to be announced.
