Rising star Ellis Howard, captivating audiences in the BBC’s acclaimed dramaWhat It Feels Like For A Girl, is poised to take on a new, compelling role.
Howard will lead the cast ofThe Rachel Incident, a forthcoming comedy-drama for Channel 4, adapted from Caroline O’Donoghue’s celebrated 2023 novel. He’s set to portray James, a character described as “insistently heterosexual,” whose life is about to be irrevocably altered.
Joining Howard is Máiréad Tyers, known for her BAFTA-nominated performance inExtraordinary, as the titular Rachel. Their story begins in the vibrant city of Cork, Ireland, in 2010.
The narrative unfolds as Rachel, a student working in a bookstore, experiences an immediate connection with James. He quickly invites her to become his roommate, sparking a friendship that will redefine both their futures.
Against the backdrop of Ireland’s economic turmoil, Rachel and James navigate a bohemian lifestyle, embracing a period of youthful exploration and reckless abandon. Their world is one of both exhilaration and uncertainty.
The plot thickens when Rachel confesses a powerful infatuation with her married professor, Dr. Fred Byrne. James, ever the friend, helps her orchestrate a book launch, hoping to create an opportunity for a daring pursuit.
However, desires prove to be unexpectedly complex. A web of secrets and compromises begins to form, drawing in not only James and Rachel, but also Dr. Byrne and his wife, Deenie – a sophisticated and influential literary editor.
The Rachel Incidentpromises a poignant exploration of unrequited love, infused with sharp wit and humor. It’s a story about navigating the complexities of friendship, romance, and the chaos of a nation in crisis.
Daniel Ings, recognized for his role inA Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, will portray Dr. Fred Byrne, while Sarah Greene, ofNormal Peoplefame, will embody the enigmatic Deenie.
The ensemble cast also includes Cúán Hosty-Blaney, Ciarán Dowd, Helen Behan, Ardal O’Hanlon, and Maria Doyle Kennedy, promising a rich tapestry of characters and performances.
Filming for the eight-part series is already underway in Cork, bringing O’Donoghue’s compelling story to life. The production benefits from the expertise of Element Pictures, the company behind critically acclaimed works likeNormal PeopleandPoor Things.
The series is being produced in collaboration with UCP and PAGEBOY Productions, a company founded by Elliot Page with a dedicated mission to amplify underrepresented voices in the industry.
Howard’s breakthrough role inWhat It Feels Like For A Girlshowcased his remarkable talent. The series, based on Paris Lees’ memoir, powerfully depicted the challenges and triumphs of a young transgender teen navigating identity, acceptance, and the complexities of first love.
The drama earned widespread acclaim, including being named the best LGBTQ+ TV show of 2025 by PinkNews, and brought significant recognition to Howard through the BAFTA Breakthrough programme.
