The BBC has announced the acquisition of the award-winning Danish DR Drama series “Prisoner,” featuring acclaimed actress Sofie Gråbøl (known for her role in “The Killing”). The series, set to air on BBC Four and iPlayer, revolves around the intricate lives of four prison officers, played by David Dencik (Henrik), Sofie Gråbøl (Miriam), Youssef Wayne Hvidtfeldt (Sammi), and Charlotte Fich (Gert).
“Prisoner” delves into the personal challenges faced by the prison officers, whose lives become entangled with the complexities of their workplace—a prison grappling with bad press, hierarchy issues, and a thriving drug trade. As the threat of the prison’s closure looms, the officers embark on a daring investigation to salvage their jobs, triggering a battle for survival that extends both within and beyond the prison walls.
Sue Deeks, Head of Programme Acquisitions at BBC, praised the series, stating, “Prisoner is an authentic, complex and compelling portrait of the harsh realities of life in prison, where it isn’t only the inmates who are trapped…”
The six-episode series, each lasting 58 minutes, was created by the renowned writer Kim Fupz Aakeson, known for his work on “The Shift,” “Welcome to Utmark,” “Cry Wolf,” and “Young Astrid.” The series was directed and co-created by Michael Noer (“Before the Frost,” “Papillon,” “R”) and Frederik Louis Hviid (“Temple,” “Follow The Money,” “Shorta”). Rikke Tørholm Kofoed produced the series for DR Drama in collaboration with Nordic public broadcasters NRK, SVT, Yle, and RUV as part of the drama partnership Nordic 12.
“Prisoner” promises to offer viewers an authentic and gripping portrayal of life behind prison walls, exploring themes of survival, camaraderie, and the challenges faced by those tasked with maintaining order within the confines of a troubled institution. The series adds to BBC Four and iPlayer’s diverse lineup, bringing a compelling international drama to the British audience.
