Falling, the six-part forbidden love story from Adolescence creator Jack Thorne, premieres tonight on Channel 4 at 9pm. The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast led by Keeley Hawes and Paapa Essiedu.
Who Stars in Falling on Channel 4?
The story follows nun Anna, played by Keeley Hawes, and Catholic priest David, portrayed by Paapa Essiedu, as they grapple with unexpected romantic feelings that force them to re-examine their faith and devotion to God.
Anna - Keeley Hawes
Anna is a dedicated nun whose tranquil existence in a closed convent is shattered when she develops feelings for a Catholic priest. Keeley Hawes brings decades of experience to the role, having appeared in major dramas such as Spooks as Zoe Reynolds, Bodyguard as Julia Montague, and Line of Duty as Lindsay Denton.
David - Paapa Essiedu
David is a charismatic young Catholic priest haunted by previous trauma, whose commitment to the church is tested when he encounters Anna. Paapa Essiedu is known for his performances as Kwame in I May Destroy You, Gaap in Black Mirror season six, Stephen in Babies, and Isaac Turner in The Capture.
Muriel - Rakie Ayola
Welsh star Rakie Ayola joins the cast as Muriel, a compassionate hospital worker who becomes a significant figure in Anna's journey. Ayola's credits include The Pact, Grace, Noughts + Crosses, Shetland, and her memorable turn as Kyla Tyson in BBC's Holby City.
Peter - Jason Watkins
Another recognisable presence is actor Jason Watkins, known for his roles as Tim Ifield in Line of Duty, the lead in The Lost Honour of Christopher Jeffries, and DS Dodds in McDonald and Dodds. In Falling, Watkins portrays Bishop Peter, a traditional church leader who regularly butts heads with David over his contemporary approach to parish life.
Francesca - Niamh Cusack
Stern Abbess Francesca runs Anna's convent, where the pair share a fraught and difficult relationship. Niamh Cusack has appeared in programmes including I, Jack Wright, Big Mood, and The Tower, though she is perhaps most recognised for her roles as Christine Fletcher in Always and Everyone and Dr Kate Rowan in Heartbeat.
Francis - Adrian Scarborough
Adrian Scarborough has appeared in films including Gosford Park, Vera Drake, The King's Speech, and Les Miserables, but is probably most famous for playing Peter Sutcliffe in Gavin and Stacey. In Falling, Scarborough takes on the role of fellow priest Francis, who provides support and counsel as he grapples with his own faith.
Phil - David Dawson
David Dawson has featured in BBC One's Luther, Ripper Street, BBC Four's The Road To Coronation Street, The Last Kingdom, and The Secret Agent. He plays a character named Phil, though his exact part in the Falling narrative remains unclear at present.
Falling premieres on Tuesday, May 19, at 9pm on Channel 4 and will be available to stream on All4.
