Watch out as here’s some ‘Adult Material’

Channel 4 drama is back with a bang.

There was once a time when the broadcaster could be relied upon to bring its viewers searing, gritty tales, unforgettable programmes that would stand the test of time. Although it does still produce the odd series, its focus seems to have shifted in recent years to eye-catching documentaries, property programmes and comedy panel shows.

However, it’s launching a new drama this week that promises to really catch the eye – although it certainly isn’t family viewing, so pack the kids and grandparents off to bed before it begins. You have been warned…

Adult Material is the brainchild of acclaimed playwright Lucy Kirkwood, whose previous stage works include the Olivier Award-winning Chimerica (which was turned into a four-part mini-series by Channel 4 last year), the Tony-nominated Mosquitos and a version of Beauty and the Beast, which was the National Theatre’s Christmas show in 2010.

On TV, as well as Chimerica, she’s worked on Skins and The Smoke; Adult Material looks set to be her biggest small-screen success to date.

The drama stars Hayley Squires, who was so impressive in Ken Loach’s compelling I, Daniel Blake, in which she played Katie, a single mother relocated to Newcastle from London who befriends the central character.

Here she portrays the wonderfully named Jolene Dollar, a devoted mother of three children who prides herself on being the main breadwinner in her household. But what most people don’t know about Jolene is that she’s one of the UK’s top porn performers.

Despite that, she goes home every day to her children and loving – and probably very understanding – long-term partner Rich. Jolene also shares her private bubble with her oldest friend, producer and businessman Carroll Quinn, who’s seen it all and done it twice when it comes to the adult film industry.

Everything seems fine, but the arrival of Tom Pain may change all that. An American who’s made millions from the adult film market, he never takes ‘no’ for an answer. Jolene’s friendship with industry newcomer Amy also causes problems. She isn’t much older than Jolene’s eldest daughter, and she feels the need to protect her – but can’t stop Amy making decisions that could have far-reaching consequences.

Suddenly Jolene’s unusual but happy life starts to unravel, but there is hope on the horizon in the form of her unlikely friendship with her local MP.

“I am so excited and incredibly grateful to be playing Jolene Dollar, she is like the wildest dream,” smiles Squires. “Lucy has written the most complex, multi-faceted and morally challenging story. Throughout each episode you are constantly forced to question your own judgement and beliefs and that makes for the very best drama. I’m very lucky to be part of a female-led crew and an incredibly talented cast.”

Rupert Everett, Joe Dempsie, Julian Ovenden, Kerry Godliman, Siena Kelly and Alex Jarrett also appear in what promises to be one of the year’s most eye-opening and gripping dramas to date.

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