Academy Award-nominee and Bafta Award-winning writer Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders, SAS Rogue Heroes, Great Expectations) will create a new original series for BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Two Tone (w/t) tells the story of an extended family and four young people who are drawn into the world of ska and two tone music, which grew from the grass roots of Coventry and Birmingham in the late 70s and early 80s. The music united black, white and Asian youths in an expression of unity.

The six-part series will be produced by Kudos, a Banijay UK Company, and Nebulastar, in association with Kudos North, Stigma Films and Nick Angel. It will start filming later this year in Birmingham at Steven Knight’s new Digbeth Loc. Film and TV studio.

Steven Knight says: “This is a project that’s literally very close to home and I’m developing characters and themes that are set in the early 80s but hopefully are very contemporary. Of course, the soundtrack will be sensational.”

Ben Irving, Acting Director of BBC Drama says: “Steven has taken his knowledge of this time and place and used it to weave a brilliantly original and characterful drama, set against the musical backdrop of ska and two tone. We are thrilled to be able to bring this unique piece to viewers on the BBC.”

Karen Wilson, Kudos Executive Producer says: “Steven’s passion for this project is palpable so I couldn’t be more excited to be making it for BBC One. Set in the West Midlands, against a moment of real cultural and historical progression, it will be compelling, diverse and will have a rocking soundtrack to boot.”

Two Tone (w/t) is created, written and executive produced by Steven Knight. Executive Producers are Karen Wilson, Martin Haines, Phil Temple and Laura Conway (Kudos), Matthew James Wilkinson (Stigma Films), Nick Angel and Tommy Bulfin for the BBC. Banijay Rights will handle international distribution for the series.

Further details will be announced in due course.

This programme is another example of the BBC’s commitment to create jobs, investment and bring productions to the West Midlands as part of our Across the UK plans. Earlier this year we announced all MasterChef series will be made in Birmingham from 2024.