Series stars Meghann Fahy and has Matthew Barry, Frank Spotnitz and Susanne Bier attached

HBO has ordered a five-part true life drama from Industry’s Matthew Barry that explores the trial of British au pair Louise Woodward.

The series is set in 1997 and tells the story of how the then 18-year-old was accused of shaking to death a baby left in her care by her American host family.

Meghann Fahy (The White Lotus

Meghann Fahy in HBO’s The White Lotus

The accusation set off an international media firestorm as the trial unfolded in public view.

The series, which will star Meghann Fahy (The White Lotus), has been created and written by Barry, who is attached as showrunner, with The Night Manager’s Susanne Bier directing.

Bier also exec produces alongside Barry, Big Light Productions founder Frank Spotnitz, Emily Feller, Tobi de Graaff, and Antoine Douaihy. Production begins this August with an expected 2027 release.

Francesca Orsi, executive vice president of HBO Programming and head of HBO Drama Series and Films, said: “Matthew’s compassionate approach to this gripping true story, paired with Susanne’s powerfully distinct directorial vision and Meghann’s exceptional talent, has brought together an extraordinary creative team whose work we’re excited to share with our audience soon.”

Barry, who has written on Death in Paradise and The Guest as well as HBO drama Industry, added: “The trial of Louise Woodward raised profound questions about childcare, working mothers, class, and the role of an emerging 24/7 media.

“Thirty years later, those questions feel more urgent and relevant than ever. I’m grateful to be working with Susanne and our partners at HBO to bring this story, in all its complexity, to the screen.”