Derek Jacobi, Anne Reid lead BBC romance 'Antony And Cleopatra'

Derek Jacobi has signed up to play the lead role in BBC One romantic comedy Antony And Cleopatra.

The Cadfael star will appear opposite Anne Reid in the series, written by Scott & Bailey's Sally Wainwright.

The six-part drama will follow childhood sweethearts Alan (Jacobi) and Celia (Reid) as they are reunited after 60 years and begin to rekindle their romance.

Sherlock's Euros Lyn will direct, while Five Daughters star Sarah Lancashire, Spooks actress Nicola Walker, Fresh Meat's Tony Gardner, Life On Mars star Dean Andrews and comedienne Ronni Ancona will play supporting roles.

"I can't remember being this excited about writing a TV series," said Wainwright. "It's everything good - uplifting, life-affirming, funny. It's a joy to write. I'm bowled over by the stunning cast we've assembled."

"I am delighted to be working with Sally again on such glorious scripts and with such a great cast," added executive producer Nicola Shindler.

"Antony And Cleopatra is funny and sharp and we have assembled a cast that will bring it to life with an energy and real joy. This is going to look and feel like a timeless love story in a very modern setting."

Produced by Exile's Karen Lewis, Antony And Cleopatra will air on BBC One later this year.

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