Feb 16 • 13:55 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Mirror

Channel 4 to adapt Michael Magee's Close to Home with House of Guinness actor Anthony Boyle

Channel 4 is set to adapt Michael Magee's novel Close to Home into a drama featuring Anthony Boyle, produced by Element Pictures.

Channel 4 has announced its plans to adapt Michael Magee’s award-winning novel Close to Home into a four-part drama series, with actor Anthony Boyle set to star. The production will be handled by Element Pictures, renowned for their work on critically acclaimed projects like Normal People and Poor Things. This adaptation signifies a notable step in the realm of contemporary Irish literature, as it brings a celebrated literary work to a wider audience on television.

The original author, Michael Magee, will not only be adapting his own work, but he also assumes the role of screenwriter for the project. This gives fans and viewers confidence that the adaptation will stay true to the artistic vision and emotional depth encapsulated in the book. The narrative is expected to focus on a generation struggling to find identity and belonging in a city marked by its traumatic past, which resonates with many in today's socio-cultural climate.

The novel has been well-received, having won the 2023 Rooney Prize for Irish Literature, highlighting its impact and significance in contemporary writing. As adaptations of literature to screen gain popularity, Magee’s involvement signifies a trend where authors take charge of their narratives, ensuring authenticity and preserving the original story’s essence, which could set a precedent for future adaptations in the industry.

📡 Similar Coverage