Ryan Sampson, best known for playing Mr William Collins in the BBC's The Other Bennet Sister, has confirmed he is developing a television adaptation of the 2005 film Kinky Boots. The film was inspired by the real-life story of Steve Pateman, who saved his family's struggling shoe factory in Northampton by manufacturing footwear for drag queens.
From Film to TV Series
Sampson, who also writes, is currently working on the script for the series. He told Digital Spy: "We are working on a Kinky Boots TV series. I'm writing it at the moment. As far as whether I'd star in it, we'll see how it goes. I'm pitching it to different channels at the moment."
He added: "I love the movie. It's great. It's really good. It has really stuck with me since I saw it. With a TV series, you could go into more depth with the story."
Original Film and Stage Success
The original film starred Chiwetel Ejiofor as Lola, the drag queen who helps transform the factory. The role has since been played by Johannes Radebe, Matt Henry, and Billy Porter in stage productions. The film has been praised by fans, with one describing it as "a heartfelt and inspirational ride" and another calling it "a kind and gentle people-story" that challenges perceptions of sexuality and gender stereotyping.
Sampson's Other Work
Sampson's current show, The Other Bennet Sister, is returning to BBC One this Christmas with a three-part festive special. Actress Ella Bruccoleri is confirmed to return alongside other familiar faces, including Sampson's character Mr Collins and his wife Charlotte Lucas, played by Anna Fenton-Garvey.
Co-star Richard E. Grant praised Sampson's performance, saying: "Ryan Sampson's Mr Collins is innately funny - he's absolutely brilliant." Ruth Jones, who plays Mrs Bennet, added: "Any scene with Ryan Sampson. He's a comedy genius and makes me want to be silly."
The Other Bennet Sister is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
