Filming Underway On New ITV Drama Starring Maxine Peake

Filming is underway in Liverpool for ITV's new drama 'Anne' starring Maxine Peake in the titular role.

The story, based on true events, will follow Anne Williams, an inspirational mother who dedicated her life to campaigning for justice following her son's death at the Hillsborough disaster in 1989. 

Produced by Julia Stannard ('Vanity Fair', 'War & Peace', 'Great Train Robbery'), the four-part mini-series is written by Kevin Sampson, author of the book 'Hillsborough Voices', which depicts the tragic events of the day, and what unfolded in the days and years after the disaster. Mr Sampson was at the 1989 semi-final as a fan and interviewed Anne Williams for 'Hillsborough Voices'. 

Stephen Walters ('Little Boy Blue', 'Shetland') joins Maxine Peake ('Black Mirror', 'Three Girls', 'Funny Cow') to play her husband, Steve Williams.

Taking on the role of Anne Williams, Ms Peake said: "Anne Williams was an extraordinary woman who spent half her life campaigning for the truth of her son's death and the other 95 victims who were unlawfully killed at Hillsborough. Anne and her family's story really is inspirational. She was a magnificent role model. Her fearlessness and drive to take on the British Establishment is mind blowing. I hope we can go some way to bringing the story of Anne, the families, victims and survivors of Hillsborough to an even wider audience."

'Anne' has been commissioned by ITV's Head of Drama, Polly Hill and will be produced by award-winning programme makers, World Productions ('Bodyguard', 'Line of Duty'). The drama will be filmed on location in and around Liverpool and directed by BAFTA award winner Bruce Goodison ('Murdered by my Father', 'Born to Kill', 'Home Fires').
 
Polly Hill added: "This drama is dedicated to Anne Williams and her diligent and tireless 23-year campaign to learn how and when her son died.  She was an inspiration and I'm proud that we can depict her story.
 
"The series has been developed with the support of Anne's daughter, Sara, who was aged 9 when her brother died. Sara has carried on her Mum's work and has assisted Kevin in the writing process."