The BBC is set to premiere a powerful new prison drama this weekend, offering viewers a profound look at life behind bars through the lens of philosophy. 'Waiting For The Out' begins its run on Saturday, January 3.
When and How to Watch the New BBC Series
Mark your calendars for the launch of this highly anticipated series. The entire six-episode series will be available to binge on BBC iPlayer from 6am on January 3rd. For those preferring traditional television, the opening episode will broadcast on BBC One at 9.30pm that same evening.
A Story of Redemption and Self-Discovery
Adapted from Andy West's acclaimed memoir, 'The Life Inside', and written by award-winning dramatist Dennis Kelly, the series centres on Dan, played by Josh Finan. Dan volunteers to teach philosophy to a group of male prisoners, tackling complex themes like luck, freedom, and dominance.
These discussions take on a deeply personal resonance for Dan, whose own father, brother Lee, and uncle Frank have all been incarcerated. As he guides the inmates, Dan is forced to confront his own family history and grapple with a haunting question: is he destined to follow the same path as his father?
Author Andy West expressed his hope that the series would "go beyond the cliches about prisons and the families inside them, and... touch people on either side of the wall." Meanwhile, BBC Director of Drama Lindsay Salt praised the "thoughtful, funny and moving" script, highlighting its "inspiring and nuanced new take on male identity, forgiveness and self-discovery."
Meet the Cast of 'Waiting For The Out'
Leading the cast, Josh Finan has described landing the role of Dan as "a genuine gift." He said of the project: "Every stage of the process so far has been both a joy and a welcome creative challenge... I can't wait for people to get the chance to watch this hugely sensitive, empathic, hilarious, and at times deeply emotional story."
The drama features a strong supporting cast:
- Alex Kearns portrays Dan's father.
- Stephen Wight stars as his brother, Lee.
- Phil Daniels plays Uncle Frank.
- Samantha Spiro takes on the role of Dan's mother.
- Francis Lovehall appears as Dris, an inmate serving time for aggravated assault.
With its unique premise and compelling cast, 'Waiting For The Out' promises to be one of the BBC's most thought-provoking dramas of the new year, challenging perceptions and exploring the transformative power of ideas within the confines of a prison.
