The acclaimed stage play Dear England, which chronicles Gareth Southgate's transformative tenure as manager of the men's national football team, is now being adapted for television by the BBC. Award-winning actor Joseph Fiennes will reprise his celebrated stage role as Southgate in the new four-part series.
From West End Stage to BBC Screen
The series, currently in production, is based on James Graham's hit National Theatre and West End production. Fiennes, 55, earned an Olivier Award nomination for his portrayal in the theatrical version. The television adaptation is being directed by Rupert Goold and produced by Left Bank Pictures, with Graham also writing the scripts.
First-look images released by the BBC reveal Fiennes' uncanny resemblance to the former manager. In one shot, he wears a suit at a press conference, while another captures him celebrating in a white polo shirt and black trousers, mirroring Southgate's iconic touchline attire during the 2024 European Championships final victory.
Star-Studded Cast Joins the Squad
The series boasts a formidable supporting cast. Former Doctor Who star Jodie Whittaker plays Pippa Grange, the team psychologist credited with improving the squad's mental resilience. Will Antenbring takes on the role of England captain Harry Kane.
The drama also features key figures from the Football Association, with The Crown's Jason Watkins as former FA chairman Greg Dyke and John Hodgkinson as former chairman Greg Clarke. The Bay actor Daniel Ryan will play assistant manager Steve Holland, and Sam Spruell from Fargo appears as a fictional coach, Mike Webster.
The Story of Southgate's England
The narrative will explore Southgate's eight-year reign, a period that revived national hope but ended without a major trophy. His leadership saw England reach two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final, famously addressing the team's historic penalty shootout woes.
The title, Dear England, originates from the open letter Southgate wrote to the nation's fans during the 2021 coronavirus pandemic. Sir Gareth, who received a knighthood after stepping down in the summer of 2025, has spoken of wanting to share his leadership lessons from that unique period.
Dear England is scheduled to air on BBC One and iPlayer in 2026, although an exact broadcast date remains unconfirmed. Meanwhile, the stage play is set to embark on a major 16-venue UK tour starting in Plymouth in September 2025.
