The BBC has unveiled the first look at its upcoming drama series, What It Feels Like for a Girl, an adaptation of Paris Lees’ acclaimed memoir. Set in the early 2000s, the eight-part series chronicles the journey of Byron, portrayed by Ellis Howard (Catherine the Great, Red Rose), a teenager from a small working-class town who ventures into Nottingham’s vibrant underworld. There, Byron becomes part of the “Fallen Divas,” a group immersed in the city’s club scene.
The ensemble cast includes Hannah Walters, Laura Haddock, Michael Socha, Laquarn Lewis, Hannah Jones, Adam Ali, Alex Thomas-Smith, Calam Lynch, Jake Dunn, and Dickie Beau. Paris Lees, who adapted her memoir for the screen, expressed enthusiasm about the casting, particularly highlighting Ellis Howard’s embodiment of Byron’s complexity and charm.
The series delves into themes of self-discovery, identity, and resilience, set against the backdrop of the early 2000s UK club scene. Filming commenced in Wales in April 2024, with Chris Sweeney serving as the lead director. Executive producers include Liza Marshall and Ron O’Berst for Hera Pictures, Nawfal Faizullah for the BBC, along with Paris Lees and Chris Sweeney.
What It Feels Like for a Girl is slated to premiere later in 2025 on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer. Further details regarding the release date will be announced in due course.
