The BBC has just unveiled its latest must-see drama, California Avenue, a star-studded series from acclaimed writer-director Hugo Blick, bringing together acting legends Bill Nighy, Helena Bonham Carter, Erin Doherty, and Tom Burke. Announced in June 2025, this six-part drama is set to transport audiences to a tranquil caravan park by a secluded canal in the English countryside, offering a rich blend of humor, heart, and unexpected romance. With filming starting later this summer in Hertfordshire, California Avenue promises to be one of the standout television events of the year.
A Stellar Cast and Creative Powerhouse
California Avenue stands out not just for its intriguing setting but for the exceptional talent both in front of and behind the camera. Bill Nighy and Helena Bonham Carter take on the roles of Jerry and Eddie, parents of Lela, who arrives at the caravan park with an eleven-year-old child, both seeking refuge from their pasts. Their presence disrupts the peaceful lives of those already at the park, setting in motion a story of family reunion, healing, and new beginnings.
Tom Burke, known for his compelling performances in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga and The Souvenir, plays Cooper, a showman outcast whose character adds a layer of mystery and charm to the unfolding drama. Erin Doherty, fresh from her acclaimed turn in Netflix’s Adolescence and The Crown, brings depth and nuance as Lela, anchoring the emotional core of the series.
Behind the scenes, Hugo Blick—creator of The English, The Honourable Woman, and Black Earth Rising—wears multiple hats as writer, director, and executive producer. The production is a collaboration between Drama Republic, Eight Rooks, and the BBC, with international distribution handled by Mediawan Rights and Entourage Media.
The Story and Setting: A 1970s English Countryside Escape
Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, California Avenue immerses viewers in a world that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The caravan park, nestled by a canal in the verdant English countryside, is a haven for those seeking solace and a fresh start. When Lela and the child arrive, their presence sets off a chain of events that reunites a fractured family, forces characters to confront past traumas, and sparks an unforeseen romance.
The series is described as “sparkling” and “infused with humor and affection,” a hallmark of Blick’s storytelling style. Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, has praised Blick’s ability to deliver “exceptional television,” and this new project is no exception. The narrative is expected to balance warmth and wit with moments of genuine emotional depth, making it accessible and engaging for a wide audience.
Key Points Summary
- Premiere Year: 2025
- Episodes: Six, each one hour long
- Main Cast: Bill Nighy, Helena Bonham Carter, Erin Doherty, Tom Burke
- Setting: 1970s English countryside caravan park by a canal
- Creators: Hugo Blick (writer, director, executive producer), Drama Republic, Eight Rooks, BBC
- International Distribution: Mediawan Rights, Entourage Media
- Filming Location: Hertfordshire, England
- Themes: Family reunion, healing, romance, humor, and emotional depth
Why California Avenue Is a Must-Watch
With its blend of top-tier acting talent, a unique setting, and a story that promises both laughter and tears, California Avenue is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated dramas of the year. The series marks another collaboration between Blick and the BBC, following previous successes like The English and The Honourable Woman. Blick’s reputation for crafting complex, character-driven narratives ensures that California Avenue will be more than just another period drama—it will be a heartfelt exploration of human connection.
The show’s setting in the 1970s English countryside offers a nostalgic escape, while its themes of family, forgiveness, and new beginnings are universally relatable. Whether you’re a fan of Blick’s previous work, a devotee of the cast, or simply looking for a compelling new drama, California Avenue is set to deliver.
What to Expect When Watching
Viewers can expect a story that is both intimate and expansive, with characters whose lives are richly drawn and whose struggles feel authentic. The arrival of Lela and the child at the caravan park serves as a catalyst, bringing together a group of people who must confront their pasts and find a way forward together. The series is expected to balance moments of lighthearted humor with genuine emotional stakes, making for a viewing experience that is both entertaining and moving.
The 1970s setting is not just a backdrop but a character in its own right, influencing the style, tone, and themes of the show. From the fashion and music to the social dynamics of the era, California Avenue promises to be a feast for the senses as well as the heart.
The Creative Vision Behind the Scenes
Hugo Blick’s vision for California Avenue is rooted in his desire to explore the possibilities of television storytelling. Over the years, he has experimented with comedy, political narratives, and even westerns, always pushing the boundaries of what television can achieve. With this new series, he pays tribute to the people who have inspired him, crafting a world filled with cherished connections and surprising truths.
Greg Brenman, executive producer and co-founder of Drama Republic, has described the series as a “realm filled with cherished connections and surprising truths, all conveyed with immense warmth and generous humor.” This combination of emotional depth and lightheartedness is a signature of Blick’s work, and California Avenue looks set to continue this tradition.
The Cast: A Dream Team of British Talent
The casting of California Avenue is nothing short of extraordinary. Bill Nighy, a veteran of stage and screen, brings gravitas and charm to the role of Jerry. Helena Bonham Carter, known for her versatility and magnetic presence, is perfectly cast as Eddie. Together, they form the heart of the family at the center of the story.
Erin Doherty, whose star has been on the rise thanks to her standout performances in The Crown and Adolescence, takes on the pivotal role of Lela. Her portrayal is expected to be both nuanced and powerful, anchoring the emotional journey of the series. Tom Burke, meanwhile, adds a touch of mystery and intrigue as Cooper, the showman outcast whose presence shakes up the status quo.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss California Avenue on BBC
California Avenue is more than just a drama—it’s an experience. With its stellar cast, evocative setting, and heartfelt storytelling, it’s set to become a highlight of the 2025 television calendar. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Hugo Blick’s work or new to his distinctive style, this series promises to deliver something special.
Mark your calendars for the premiere on BBC iPlayer and BBC One, and join us on a journey to the 1970s English countryside, where laughter, love, and new beginnings await.
Are you ready to escape to California Avenue? Tune in to BBC this year and discover a drama that’s as heartwarming as it is unforgettable.