BBC Announces Cast for The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ as Filming Begins
The BBC has confirmed the full cast and released a first-look image for its highly anticipated new adaptation of The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾, as filming gets underway for the upcoming series on BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
Based on the best-selling novel by Sue Townsend, the nine-part drama is being adapted by David Nicholls, known for One Day and Us. The series is produced by Big Talk Studios, part of ITV Studios, for the BBC.
Rising star Oliver Savell will take on the lead role of Adrian Mole, one of British literature’s most iconic teenage characters. Savell has quickly gained industry recognition, earning a BAFTA nomination for Best Male Comedy Performance in 2025, with another nomination confirmed for 2026. He also won the same category at the Royal Television Society Programme Awards in 2025.
Joining him is a strong supporting cast, including Lisa McGrillis (Rivals, Mum) as Adrian’s mother Pauline, and Colin Hoult (After Life, Slow Horses) as his father George. Veteran actress Pam Ferris (Matilda, The Darling Buds of May) will play Grandma, while Galaxie Clear appears as Pandora and Alun Armstrong (The Longest Day, Breeders) takes on the role of Bert.
Additional casting includes Jude Forsey as Nigel, Rory Keenan as Mr Lucas, David Wilmot as Mr Scruton and Karl Collins as Mr Cherry.
The writing team expands beyond Nicholls, with contributions from Caitlin Moran and Caroline Moran (Raised By Wolves), alongside Dillon Mapletoft, Oliver Taylor (Everyone Else Burns) and Jack Rooke (Big Boys).
Set in 1981, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ follows the inner world of Adrian as he documents the trials of adolescence in suburban Britain. From navigating his parents’ turbulent relationship to experiencing first love and teenage insecurities, Adrian’s diary captures a sharply observed and often humorous portrait of growing up before the digital age.
The new BBC adaptation aims to introduce the beloved character to a new generation while remaining faithful to the wit and emotional depth of Townsend’s original work. Combining coming-of-age storytelling with social commentary, the series is expected to appeal to both long-time fans and new audiences alike.
With filming now in progress, The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ is shaping up to be one of the BBC’s most talked-about drama releases, blending nostalgia, humour and heartfelt storytelling in a modern television adaptation.