Channel 4 has announced a new crime drama from production company Eagle Eye Drama, which is behind recent hit series such as The Couple Next Door, Professor T and Hotel Portofino.
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The new six-part series, Patience, has already been filmed in York and Belgium, and it stars Ella Maisy Purvis (Malpractice) as the title character, Patience Evans.
Also starring Laura Fraser (Better Call Saul), Ali Ariaie (Doctor Who) and Nathan Welsh (Trying), the show follows Patience, a young autistic woman and self-taught criminologist who works in the criminal records department of Yorkshire Police. She craves routine and order, but also yearns for more.
Fraser's character, Detective Bea Metcalf, spots and utilises Patience's talent, opening a door into a whole new world for the character.
The series sees Patience attending regular support groups for autistic adults, and all neurodivergent characters within the show are played by neurodiverse actors.
Ella Maisy Purvis as Patience. Channel4/EagleEyeDrama/RobertViglasky
Purvis said in a statement: "I'm incredibly honoured to bring Patience Evans to life in this groundbreaking drama. Audiences can look forward to an authentic representation of a young autistic woman that is written with nuance and detail, but also that challenges the norms of the neurotypical world.
"Patience is a character full of depth, intelligence, and an unwavering passion for justice, and I can't wait for viewers to join her on this thrilling journey."
Patience. Channel4/EagleEyeDrama/RobertViglasky
Meanwhile, Fraser added: "Patience is full of intriguing mysteries and unusual crimes, but also looks at detective Bea Metcalf's working relationship with a young woman who experiences life in a different way to her own, and also the friendship that develops between them."
Ben Wadey, drama commissioning executive, Channel 4, said: "Patience is a captivating crime drama that not only delivers gripping mysteries, but also offers a unique and authentic perspective on neurodiversity.
"Channel 4 is incredibly proud to champion this groundbreaking series, which celebrates the power of difference, offering viewers a fresh take on the crime genre."
James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.
