Sky Kids today announced live-action, comedy drama mini-series, Little Darlings, adapted from the bestselling children’s book of the same name by renowned author Dame Jacqueline Wilson.

Starring chart-topping artists, Lemar and Jamelia, with original music from Lemar, this modern-day fairy-tale has music at its very core, in a story that unlocks the comic and emotional fallout when two very different families are thrown together.

Little Darlings is a four-part mini-series about 11-year-old Destiny who longs to meet her dad… it just so happens that he is rock star Danny Kilman (Lemar) and doesn’t even know she exists! Home for Kate (Jamelia) and Destiny is a flat in Birmingham – light years away from the luxurious Kilman mansion – but Destiny is delighted when her mum agrees it’s time to meet her dad.

Everything changes when the two families meet in the middle of the night: sparks fly between Kate and Danny and Destiny finds a soul mate in her new sister, Sunset. Through their instant connection and mutual passion for music, the two sisters see each other in a way no one else can, bringing out each other’s hidden talent to shine for all the world to see.

Alongside Lemar and Jamelia, Janae Vito plays Destiny and Diaana Babnicova plays Sunset. They are supported by Kayla Mai Alvares as Sunset’s sassy younger sister, Sweetie, and Cameron Douglas as Ace, her tiger-obsessed brother. The series also stars Rufus Jones as Danny’s agent, with series writer Nathan Bryon playing Kate’s hairdressing business partner.

Lucy Murphy, director of kids content, Sky UK and Ireland, said: “Dame Jacqueline Wilson is one of the UK’s most beloved children’s authors, so we’re thrilled to be bringing Little Darlings to life on our screens supported by the exceptional musical talents of Lemar and Jamelia and this diverse cast of talented young actors – this tale of family bonds, celebrity and sisterhood really has something for everyone.”

Lemar said: “I’m so excited to be a part of Little Darlings. Sky Kids and the team at Kindle have been amazing and getting to work alongside great crew, cast members, and friends has been a real breath of fresh air. I love what this show represents… something positive with a bit of humour for the whole family!” 

Jamelia said: “The opportunity to work with such brilliant up-and-coming talent, both on and off screen, has been a dream – not to mention reuniting with Lemar to perform again! I’m so thrilled to be a part of this funny, vibrant and important show.”

Available from the 11th February on Sky Kids and streaming service NOW, this 4 x 22’ mini-series is adapted for screen by Nathan Bryon (co-creator and writer of Sky Max Bloods) and Jonny Wright.

Alongside the mini-series, Sky Kids will also release a partner series on the 11th February called On Tour: Little Darlings filmed by sisters Destiny and Sunset from a luxury tour bus whilst on tour with their dad.

Delivered as a vlog, the sisters are excited to share their behind-the-scenes take of life on tour. But being on the road has its ups and downs! Sunset and Destiny get to know one another – as well as each other’s most irritating habits – and they also learn lots about themselves and by the end emerge closer than ever.

Both series are produced by Kindle Entertainment, who have adapted many of Dame Jacqueline Wilson’s books including Bafta and Emmy-winning Dustbin Baby and Four Kids and It for Sky Cinema. NBCUniversal Global Distribution will handle international sales of the series.

Melanie Stokes, head of kindle entertainment and executive producer and co-executive producer, Emma Stuart, stated: “We’re delighted to be making this first Jacqueline Wilson adaption for Sky Kids and to build on our long-standing partnership with this great British children’s author. Little Darlings offers Jacqueline Wilson fans a fresh take on a much loved book, from writers Nathan Bryon and Jonny Wright. This, combined with the star quality and sheer talent of Lemar and Jamelia, creates a warm, wish-fulfilling universe that is firmly rooted in contemporary Britain.”

Brand new for 2022, Sky Original  Little Darlings  comes to Sky Kids and streaming service NOW from 11th February 2022 and will be available on-demand for customers across the UK and ROI.