BBC Unveils Cast for Adrian Mole Adaptation

The BBC has unveiled the cast and a first-look image for its upcoming nine-part adaptation of Sue Townsend's bestselling novel, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾, with filming now underway in Hartlepool, County Durham.

The series, set to air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer next year, stars Oliver Savell, known for Changing Ends and Belfast, in the lead role of the awkward 13-year-old protagonist, Adrian Mole. Savell, who earned a BAFTA nomination for Best Male Comedy Performance in 2025 and is nominated again for 2026, appears in the released image leaning against a tree while dressed in a beige jacket and carrying a newspaper delivery bag.

Joining Savell are Lisa McGrillis, from Rivals and Mum, as Adrian's mother Pauline; Colin Hoult, of After Life and Slow Horses, as his father George; Pam Ferris, recognized for Matilda and Call the Midwife, as Grandma; Galaxie Clear, from Extra Geography and Secret Service, as Adrian's crush Pandora; and Alun Armstrong, seen in Breeders and New Tricks, as the foul-mouthed pensioner Bert Baxter. Additional cast members include Jude Forsey as Adrian's friend Nigel, Rory Keenan as teacher Mr. Lucas, David Wilmot as headmaster Mr. Scruton, and...