Ackley Bridge#Cast and characters
{{Short description|British television drama series}}
{{good article}}
{{Use British English|date=December 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2022}}
{{Infobox television
| image = Ackley Bridge Title Card.jpg
| genre = Comedy drama{{Cite news|url=https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/comedy/ackley-bridge-tv-time-date/|title=When is Ackley Bridge on TV? Who's in the cast and what's going to happen?|last=Bley Griffiths|first=Eleanor|date=25 June 2019|work=Radio Times|access-date=9 December 2019|archive-date=9 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209153258/https://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2019-06-25/ackley-bridge-tv-time-date/amp/|url-status=live}}
| creator = {{Plainlist|
- Ayub Khan Din
- Kevin Erlis
- Malcolm Campbell
}}
| starring = Full list
| composer = Tim Phillips
| country = United Kingdom
| language = English
| num_series = 5
| num_episodes = 46
| list_episodes = List of Ackley Bridge episodes
| executive_producer = {{Plainlist|
- Malcolm Campbell
- George Faber
- George Ormond
- Ayub Khan-Din
}}
| producer = Alexander Lamb
| editor = {{Plainlist|
- Anthony Combes
- Vicky Tooms
- Dan Crinnion
- David Stark
- David I'Anson
}}
| location = Halifax, West Yorkshire, England
| cinematography = {{Plainlist|
- Anna Valdez-Hanks
- Sergio Delgado
}}
| runtime = {{Plainlist|
- 45 minutes (series 1–3)
- 23 minutes (series 4–5)
}}
| company = The Forge
| network = {{Plainlist|
}}
| first_aired = {{start date|df=y|2017|06|07}}
| last_aired = {{end date|df=y|2022|07|11}}
}}
Ackley Bridge is a British comedy drama series set in a multicultural academy school of the same name. The series is set in the fictional town of Ackley, and filmed in Halifax, West Yorkshire and it began broadcasting on Channel 4 on 7 June 2017. In the fourth series, Ackley Bridge saw a major overhaul, including different time slots, a shortened runtime, several new characters to replace cast exits and moving the series onto streaming platform All 4.
The first three series of Ackley Bridge received praise from critics and viewers, who liked that the programme represented minority groups and tackled real-world issues. Main cast members Poppy Lee Friar, Amy-Leigh Hickman and Sunetra Sarker have received awards for their portrayals of their respective characters, as well as the series itself garnering awards and nominations at various ceremonies. However, the fourth series faced criticism from the public. They felt that Channel 4 moving Ackley Bridge to a 6pm time slot had led to the edgy storylines being softened and that the long-term characters did not receive enough screen-time. Following a fifth series that received a late night slot, Channel 4 confirmed that they had decided not to renew Ackley Bridge further.
Production
In early 2017, Channel 4 announced The ABC, a six-part school drama produced by The Forge.{{cite news|url=http://theforgeentertainment.co.uk/production/the-abc/|title=Ackley Bridge|work=The Forge Entertainment|date=10 May 2017|access-date=13 May 2017|archive-date=9 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170509061938/http://theforgeentertainment.co.uk/production/the-abc/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://www.channel4.com/info/press/news/casting-announced-on-c4-s-new-8pm-drama-the-abc-w-t|title=Casting announced on C4's new 8pm drama The ABC|work=Channel 4|date=23 February 2017|access-date=13 May 2017|archive-date=14 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170514044756/http://www.channel4.com/info/press/news/casting-announced-on-c4-s-new-8pm-drama-the-abc-w-t|url-status=dead}} The series follows the merger of two schools in a divided White and Pakistani community due to budget cuts, exploring "the turbulent school experience, covering the challenges of prejudice and cultural issues in the school environment, as well as the humour, relationships and conflict had by the pupils, teachers and parents."{{cite news|url=http://www.whatsontv.co.uk/news/jo-joyner-headteacher-channel4-abc-454509/|title=Jo Joyner to play headteacher in new Channel 4 drama The ABC|work=What's on TV?|last=Lamacraft|first=Tess|date=23 February 2017|access-date=13 May 2017|archive-date=28 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170228112539/http://www.whatsontv.co.uk/news/jo-joyner-headteacher-channel4-abc-454509/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://rts.org.uk/article/channel-4-releases-first-look-drama-abc|title=Channel 4 releases first look at drama The ABC|work=Royal Television Society|last=Holma|first=Kate|date=23 February 2017|access-date=13 May 2017|archive-date=17 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117221603/https://rts.org.uk/article/channel-4-releases-first-look-drama-abc|url-status=live}} St Catherine's Catholic High School in Halifax is used as the filming location for Ackley Bridge College.{{cite news|url=http://www.halifaxcourier.co.uk/news/former-halifax-high-school-transformed-for-new-tv-drama-1-8369536|title=Former Halifax high school transformed for new TV drama|work=Halifax Courier|date=3 February 2017|access-date=13 May 2017|archive-date=3 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170203151922/http://www.halifaxcourier.co.uk/news/former-halifax-high-school-transformed-for-new-tv-drama-1-8369536|url-status=live}} The series was later renamed Ackley Bridge.{{cite news|url=http://www.radiotimes.com/news/2017-05-11/an-exclusive-first-look-at-the-trailer-for-new-channel-4-school-drama-ackley-bridge|title=An exclusive first look at the trailer for new Channel 4 school drama Ackley Bridge|work=Radio Times|last=Dowell|first=Ben|date=11 May 2017|access-date=13 May 2017|archive-date=15 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170515174504/http://www.radiotimes.com/news/2017-05-11/an-exclusive-first-look-at-the-trailer-for-new-channel-4-school-drama-ackley-bridge|url-status=dead}}
Following the Manchester Arena bombing, the first episode was re-edited prior to airing as there were scenes showing "a troubled student strap a fake bomb to himself in order to disrupt the merging of a predominantly white and a predominantly Asian school."{{cite news|url=http://metro.co.uk/2017/05/25/channel-4-school-drama-ackley-bridge-cuts-bomb-hoax-scene-in-the-wake-of-manchester-terror-attack-6661435/|title=Channel 4 school drama Ackley Bridge cuts bomb hoax scene in the wake of Manchester terror attack|work=Metro|last=Lindsay|first=Duncan|date=25 May 2017|access-date=25 May 2017|archive-date=25 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525141843/http://metro.co.uk/2017/05/25/channel-4-school-drama-ackley-bridge-cuts-bomb-hoax-scene-in-the-wake-of-manchester-terror-attack-6661435/|url-status=live}} A spokesperson commented: "In light of the tragic events in Manchester, the first episode of forthcoming drama series Ackley Bridge is being re-edited." Ahead of the first series premiere, additional content from the show was shared on Snapchat for "high school age characters to tell their stories in the way young people are" to introduce the characters. Further episodes will "be subsidised with additional videos that will help build the world outside of the allocated TV broadcast."{{cite news|url=http://www.thedrum.com/news/2017/05/31/channel-4-taps-snapchat-tell-the-story-ackley-bridge-students|title=Channel 4 taps Snapchat to tell the story of Ackley Bridge students|work=The Drum|last=McCarthy|first=John|date=31 May 2017|access-date=31 May 2017|archive-date=5 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170605092715/http://www.thedrum.com/news/2017/05/31/channel-4-taps-snapchat-tell-the-story-ackley-bridge-students|url-status=live}}
The first series aired from 7 June{{cite news |title=Wednesday's best TV: Ackley Bridge; Eat Well for Less; Horizon |url=https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2017/jun/07/wednesdays-best-tv-ackley-bridge-eat-well-for-less-horizon |access-date=4 March 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=7 June 2017 |archive-date=22 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722011234/https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2017/jun/07/wednesdays-best-tv-ackley-bridge-eat-well-for-less-horizon |url-status=live }} to 12 July 2017,{{cite news |title=Ackley Bridge – episode six was an entertainingly eventful end to the first term: review |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2017/07/12/ackley-bridge-episode-six-entertainingly-eventful-end-first/ |access-date=4 March 2021 |work=The Daily Telegraph |date=12 July 2017 |archive-date=18 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170718194036/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2017/07/12/ackley-bridge-episode-six-entertainingly-eventful-end-first/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}} and Ackley Bridge was renewed by Channel 4 for a second series consisting of 12 episodes.{{cite news|url=http://metro.co.uk/2017/06/30/channel-4-hands-school-drama-ackley-bridge-a-second-series-which-is-doubled-in-length-6745749/|title=Channel 4 hands school drama Ackley Bridge a second series which is doubled in length|work=Metro|last=Lindsay|first=Duncan|date=30 June 2017|access-date=30 June 2017|archive-date=2 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170702053240/http://metro.co.uk/2017/06/30/channel-4-hands-school-drama-ackley-bridge-a-second-series-which-is-doubled-in-length-6745749/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2018-05-23/ackley-bridge-series-2-channel-4-trailer/|title=Exclusive Ackley Bridge trailer reveals major drama coming in series two|work=Radio Times|last=Bley Griffiths|first=Eleanor|date=23 May 2018|access-date=1 June 2018|archive-date=29 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180529194718/http://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2018-05-23/ackley-bridge-series-2-channel-4-trailer/|url-status=live}} Following the broadcast of an eight-part third series,{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/news/a864503/ackley-bridge-series-2-finale-episode-series-3-channel-4/|title=Channel 4 confirms a third series of Ackley Bridge after emotional final episode|work=Digital Spy|last=Houghton|first=Rianne|date=21 August 2018|access-date=21 August 2018|archive-date=22 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180822014710/http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/news/a864503/ackley-bridge-series-2-finale-episode-series-3-channel-4/|url-status=live}} Ackley Bridge was again renewed by Channel 4, with the fourth series initially set to premiere in September 2020.{{Cite web|url=https://metro.co.uk/2019/12/05/ackley-bridge-to-return-for-a-fourth-series-but-theres-a-major-change-11272204/|title=Ackley Bridge to return for a fourth series but there's a major change|last=Lindsay|first=Duncan|date=5 December 2019|website=Metro|language=en|access-date=5 December 2019|archive-date=5 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205103341/https://metro.co.uk/2019/12/05/ackley-bridge-to-return-for-a-fourth-series-but-theres-a-major-change-11272204/|url-status=live}} Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on television, production was postponed.{{Cite news|url=https://www.prolificnorth.co.uk/news/coronavirus/2020/08/filming-resumes-ackley-bridge-next-month?amp|title=Filming resumes on Ackley Bridge next month|work=Prolific North|access-date=27 December 2020|archive-date=13 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113153131/https://www.prolificnorth.co.uk/news/coronavirus/2020/08/filming-resumes-ackley-bridge-next-month?amp|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://tellymix.co.uk/tv/426183-ackley-bridge-series-4-air-date-cast-format.html?amp|title=Ackley Bridge series 4 cast, air date and new format|work=TellyMix|access-date=27 December 2020|archive-date=13 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113042214/https://tellymix.co.uk/tv/426183-ackley-bridge-series-4-air-date-cast-format.html?amp|url-status=live}} This meant that the premiere of the series was postponed to April 2021.{{Cite news|url=https://www.channel4.com/press/news/channel-4-goes-back-school-new-ackley-bridge-images-released|title=Channel 4 goes back to school with new Ackley Bridge images released|work=Channel 4|date=8 March 2021|access-date=15 March 2021|archive-date=11 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210311050913/https://www.channel4.com/press/news/channel-4-goes-back-school-new-ackley-bridge-images-released|url-status=live}} It was later confirmed that the first episode would premiere on Channel 4 at 19 April 2021 with a revised timeslot of 6:00 p.m.; the following nine episodes were released afterwards as a boxset on All 4. Another of the changes made to the series included the runtime, which was halved from 60 minutes to 30 minutes. Rebecca Holdsworth, Channel 4's commissioning executive, stated that the shortened runtime was to reflect the viewing habits of younger viewers and to give the series "a new look and feel".{{Cite news|url=https://www.entertainmentdaily.co.uk/news/channel-4s-ackley-bridge-cut-to-30-minutes-episodes-for-series-four/|title=Channel 4'a Ackley Bridge cut to 30-minutes episodes for series four|work=Entertainment Daily|date=6 December 2019|access-date=29 October 2020|archive-date=22 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022053949/https://www.entertainmentdaily.co.uk/news/channel-4s-ackley-bridge-cut-to-30-minutes-episodes-for-series-four/|url-status=live}}
On 17 June 2021, it was announced in a report by Production Weekly that production on the fifth series of Ackley Bridge had commenced that week.{{Cite tweet|number=1405314349292478464|title=Production Weekly – Issue 1251 – Thursday, June 17, 2021 / 155 Listings – 34 Pages – Production Weekly|user=prodweek|author=Production Weekly|date=17 June 2021}}{{cite news |title=ACKLEY BRIDGE SET TO RETURN FOR FIFTH SERIES ON CHANNEL 4 |url=https://www.tvzoneuk.com/post/ackleybridge-series5 |access-date=20 June 2021 |work=TVZone |date=20 June 2021 |archive-date=20 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210620172814/https://www.tvzoneuk.com/post/ackleybridge-series5 |url-status=live }} The series premiered on All 4 on 11 July 2022.{{cite news |last1=Dainty |first1=Sophie |title=First look at Ackley Bridge's brand new series – here's when it will be airing |url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/a40434053/ackley-bridge-series-5-exclusive-first-look-pictures/ |access-date=27 June 2022 |work=Digital Spy |publisher=(Hearst Communications) |date=27 June 2022 |archive-date=27 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627172736/https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/a40434053/ackley-bridge-series-5-exclusive-first-look-pictures/ |url-status=live }} In November 2022, Channel 4 announced that they had decided not to renew Ackley Bridge.{{cite news |last1=Buglass |first1=Lucy |title=Ackley Bridge axed by Channel 4 after five seasons |url=https://www.whattowatch.com/news/ackley-bridge-axed-by-channel-4-after-five-seasons |access-date=18 May 2023 |work=What to Watch |publisher=(Future plc) |date=15 November 2022 |archive-date=15 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221115120630/https://www.whattowatch.com/news/ackley-bridge-axed-by-channel-4-after-five-seasons |url-status=live }} In a statement, they said: "As a broadcaster, we’re immensely proud of Ackley Bridge, which over the last five series has received praise for the way in which it has tackled real-life situations and issues in an irreverent and insightful way. However, Channel 4 has a responsibility to continuously look for new and innovative ideas and we have made the difficult decision to not greenlight another series."{{cite news |last1=Darvill |first1=Josh |title=Ackley Bridge cancelled after five series on Channel 4 |url=https://tellymix.co.uk/ackley-bridge-cancelled-after-five-series-on-channel-4 |access-date=14 November 2022 |work=TellyMix |date=14 November 2022 |archive-date=24 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240424070130/https://tellymix.co.uk/ackley-bridge-cancelled-after-five-series-on-channel-4/ |url-status=live }}
Casting
{{Main|Characters of Ackley Bridge}}
The cast, main and supporting, are a mix of experienced and trained actors, as well as street cast actors.{{cite news|url=https://metro.co.uk/2017/06/06/jo-joyner-and-sunetra-sarker-on-how-channel-4-drama-ackley-bridge-is-very-timely-following-london-terror-attack-6688540/|title=Jo Joyner and Sunetra Sarker on how Channel 4 drama Ackley Bridge is very timely following London terror attack|work=Metro|last=Duncan|first=Amy|date=6 June 2017|access-date=10 June 2018|archive-date=12 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612143123/https://metro.co.uk/2017/06/06/jo-joyner-and-sunetra-sarker-on-how-channel-4-drama-ackley-bridge-is-very-timely-following-london-terror-attack-6688540/|url-status=live}} Amy-Leigh Hickman plays Nasreen Paracha, daughter of Kaneez Paracha, who is described as a "quieter and tamer" student, as well as "intelligent", but "ballsy." She felt comfortable acting scenes with Poppy Lee Friar, who plays best friend Missy Booth, due to having a friendship in real life.{{cite news|url=http://www.channel4.com/info/press/news/interview-with-amy-leigh-hickman-who-plays-nas-paracha|title=Interview with Amy Leigh Hickman who plays Nas Paracha|work=Channel 4|date=24 May 2017|access-date=11 December 2017|archive-date=12 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171212031902/http://www.channel4.com/info/press/news/interview-with-amy-leigh-hickman-who-plays-nas-paracha|url-status=dead}} Friar says she loves portraying Missy, who she describes as "sassy, saucy and a survivor."{{cite news|url=http://www.radiotimes.com/news/2017-12-01/ackley-bridge-everything-you-need-to-know-about-channel-4s-new-school-drama/|title=Ackley Bridge: everything you need to know about Channel 4's new school drama|work=Radio Times|last=Hughes|first=Jonathon|access-date=11 December 2017|archive-date=11 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171211021950/http://www.radiotimes.com/news/2017-12-01/ackley-bridge-everything-you-need-to-know-about-channel-4s-new-school-drama/|url-status=live}} Television newcomers Nazmeen Kauser and Esa Ashraf play Razia and Saleem Paracha, Kaneez's two other children.{{cite news|url=http://www.bradfordzone.co.uk/ackley-bridge-interview-with-arsher-ali-who-plays-sami-qureshi/|title=Ackley Bridge Interview with Arsher Ali who plays Sami Qureshi|work=Bradford Zone|date=2 June 2017|access-date=11 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171212032008/http://www.bradfordzone.co.uk/ackley-bridge-interview-with-arsher-ali-who-plays-sami-qureshi/|archive-date=12 December 2017|url-status=dead}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.radiotimes.com/tv-programme/e/fqzdhp/ackley-bridge--series-1-episode-2/|title=Ackley Bridge – what time is it on TV? Episode 2 Series 1 cast list and preview|work=Radio Times|access-date=5 March 2021|archive-date=21 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170721063017/http://www.radiotimes.com/tv-programme/e/fqzdhp/ackley-bridge--series-1-episode-2/|url-status=live}}
Former EastEnders actors Jo Joyner and Paul Nicholls received the parts of married couple Mandy Carter, the headteacher of Ackley Bridge College, and Steve Bell, a PE teacher.{{Cite news|url=https://www.whattowatch.com/news/ackley-bridge-star-paul-nicholls-i-still-feel-like-a-16-year-old-kid-539792/|title=Ex EastEnders actor and Ackley Bridge star Paul Nicholls: 'I still feel like a 16-year-old kid!'|work=What's on TV|publisher=Future plc|access-date=5 March 2021|archive-date=22 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190422014501/https://www.whatsontv.co.uk/news/ackley-bridge-star-paul-nicholls-i-still-feel-like-a-16-year-old-kid-539792/amp/|url-status=live}} Joyner described Mandy as "career driven", who has "worked so hard over the years to get to the level she's at." Joyner added that she likes the fact her character is not interested in having children.{{cite news|url=http://www.celebsnow.co.uk/celebrity-news/ackley-bridge-jo-joyner-674153|title=Ackley Bridge star Jo Joyner talks playing a northerner and how she feels about on-screen husband Paul Nicholls|work=Now|date=4 June 2017|access-date=29 June 2017|archive-date=18 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170618215744/http://www.celebsnow.co.uk/celebrity-news/ackley-bridge-jo-joyner-674153|url-status=dead}} Adil Ray was cast as school sponsor Sadiq Nawaz,{{cite news |last1=Laws |first1=Roz |title=Ackley Bridge on Channel 4 – how viewers reacted to star Adil Ray |url=https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/ackley-bridge-channel-4-reaction-13155368 |access-date=15 March 2021 |date=8 June 2017 |archive-date=11 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181011202947/https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/showbiz-tv/ackley-bridge-channel-4-reaction-13155368 |url-status=live }} as well as Liz White also joining the series as English teacher Emma Keane.{{cite press release |title=Interview with Liz White who plays Emma Keane in Ackley Bridge |url=https://www.pressparty.com/pg/newsdesk/Channel4/view/167394/ |access-date=15 March 2021 |via=PressReader |archive-date=24 May 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170524144218/http://www.pressparty.com/pg/newsdesk/Channel4/view/167394/ |url-status=live }} Maariah Hussain and Samuel Bottomley, both students at Yorkshire School of Acting in Bradford, were cast as Alya Nawaz and Jordan Wilson, respectively. Hussain described her character as "super intelligent, fiercely righteous, and a bit of a mean girl", but noted that Alya is as "insecure as any teenage girl".{{cite news|url=http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/15339146.Bradford_teens_go_back_to_school_in_new_TV_drama_Ackley_Bridge/|title=Bradford teenage actors Maariah Hussain and Sam Bottomley go back to school in new TV drama Ackley Bridge|work=Telegraph & Argus|last=Clayton|first=Emma|date=12 June 2017|access-date=15 June 2017|archive-date=15 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170615190144/http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/15339146.Bradford_teens_go_back_to_school_in_new_TV_drama_Ackley_Bridge/|url-status=live}} Jordan is billed as an artist that is "badly behaved and not fazed by getting into trouble". Matt Zina, principal of Hussain and Bottomley's acting school, said Ackley Bridge is Hussain's first role, noting her excitement, and he described Bottomley as an "exciting young actor". Cody Ryan got the part of Hayley Booth through an acting workshop at her school, Buttershaw Business and Enterprise College, which was run by Beverley Keogh casting agency.{{cite news|url=https://www.buttershaw.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Spring-2017.pdf|title=Performing Arts Success|work=Buttershaw Business and Enterprise College|access-date=3 September 2017|archive-date=17 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117221544/https://www.buttershaw.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Spring-2017.pdf|url-status=live}} Students from Trinity Academy, North Halifax Grammar School, The Crossley Heath School, and Calderdale College feature in the series.{{cite news|url=http://www.examiner.co.uk/news/new-tv-drama-ackley-bridge-13152495|title=Where is new TV drama Ackley Bridge set?|work=Huddersfield Daily Examiner|last=Ankers|first=Wayne|date=7 June 2017|access-date=15 June 2017|archive-date=9 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170609202802/http://www.examiner.co.uk/news/new-tv-drama-ackley-bridge-13152495|url-status=live}}
In the second series, Tony Jayawardena was cast as Rashid Hyatt, a science teacher at Ackley Bridge College, and a love interest of Kaneez.{{Cite web|url=https://www.halifaxcourier.co.uk/whats-on/tv-and-film/here-is-what-to-expect-from-the-next-episode-of-channel-4-s-ackley-bridge-1-9288239|title=Here is what to expect from the next episode of Channel 4's Ackley Bridge|website=Halifax Courier|date=7 August 2018 |language=en|access-date=5 December 2019|archive-date=17 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117221544/https://www.halifaxcourier.co.uk/news/here-what-expect-next-episode-channel-4s-ackley-bridge-268083|url-status=live}} Adam Fielding and Jay Saighal also appear.{{Cite web|url=https://meaww.com/channel-4-ackley-bridge-is-back|title=Channel 4's Ackley Bridge is back with another round of school drama, racial tensions and more life lessons|website=Meaww|date=4 June 2018 |language=en|access-date=5 December 2019|archive-date=29 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200929210926/https://meaww.com/channel-4-ackley-bridge-is-back|url-status=live}} Megan Parkinson was then cast in the role of Sam Murgatroyd, a love interest for Nasreen.{{Cite web|url=https://metro.co.uk/2018/07/10/ackley-bridge-spoilers-nasreen-parachas-new-love-revealed-but-theres-a-twist-7688614/|title=Ackley Bridge reveals Nasreen's new love but there's a devastating twist|date=10 July 2018|website=Metro|language=en|access-date=5 December 2019|archive-date=23 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180723182329/https://metro.co.uk/2018/07/10/ackley-bridge-spoilers-nasreen-parachas-new-love-revealed-but-theres-a-twist-7688614/|url-status=live}} Vicky Entwistle guest-starred in the series as the secret wife of Iqbal,{{Cite news|url=https://metro.co.uk/2018/05/22/coronation-street-star-vicky-entwistle-joins-ackley-bridge-huge-storyline-big-twist-7567588/|title=Coronation Street star Vicky Entwistle joins Ackley Bridge for huge storyline with a big twist|work=Metro|access-date=5 March 2021|archive-date=12 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180712123420/https://metro.co.uk/2018/05/22/coronation-street-star-vicky-entwistle-joins-ackley-bridge-huge-storyline-big-twist-7567588/amp/|url-status=live}} as well as Kimberley Walsh, who appeared as "home-wrecking netball teacher" Claire Butterworth.{{Cite news|url=https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/drama/ackley-bridge-cast-kimberley-walsh-channel-4-northern-drama/|title=Kimberley Walsh explains why she joined the cast of Ackley Bridge: "It's really nice to be a part of such a brilliant northern drama"|work=Radio Times|access-date=5 March 2021|archive-date=19 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419135144/https://www.radiotimes.com/tv/drama/ackley-bridge-cast-kimberley-walsh-channel-4-northern-drama/amp/|url-status=live}} For the third series, several new cast members were cast, including Phoebe Tuffs-Berry,{{Cite news|url=https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/inspiration-behind-teenager-landing-lead-16498354.amp|title=The inspiration behind teenager landing lead role as Ackley Bridge bad girl|work=Examiner Live|publisher=Reach plc|access-date=5 March 2021|archive-date=31 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190731204156/https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/inspiration-behind-teenager-landing-lead-16498354.amp|url-status=live}} Zara Salim,{{Cite news|url=https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/17730804.skiptons-zara-wins-place-television-drama-ackley-bridge/|title=Skipton's Zara wins a place on television drama Ackley Bridge|work=Craven Herald & Pioneer|access-date=5 March 2021|archive-date=19 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210419135147/https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/17730804.skiptons-zara-wins-place-television-drama-ackley-bridge/|url-status=live}} Hareet Deol,{{Cite news|url=https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1147954/Ackley-Bridge-season-3-cast-Who-plays-PE-teacher-Mr-Hassan-Hussein-Hareet-Deol-Channel-4/amp|title=Ackley Bridge season 3 cast: Who plays PE teacher Mr Hassan Hussein? Who is Hareet Deol?|work=Daily Express|access-date=5 March 2021|archive-date=1 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201201936/https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1147954/Ackley-Bridge-season-3-cast-Who-plays-PE-teacher-Mr-Hassan-Hussein-Hareet-Deol-Channel-4/amp|url-status=live}} Rob James-Collier, Charlie Hardwick, and Ty Glaser in regular roles.{{Cite web|url=https://www.channel4.com/press/news/robert-james-collier-charlie-hardwick-join-ackley-bridge|title=Robert James-Collier & Charlie Hardwick join Ackley Bridge|website=Channel 4|access-date=5 December 2019|archive-date=25 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190425054537/https://www.channel4.com/press/news/robert-james-collier-charlie-hardwick-join-ackley-bridge|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.whatsontv.co.uk/news/ackley-bridge-rob-james-collier-martin-rule-breaker-581915/|title=Corrie legend Rob James-Collier reveals ALL about his new role as deputy headteacher in Ackley Bridge|last=Wilson|first=Victoria|date=11 June 2019|website=What's on TV|language=en|access-date=5 December 2019|archive-date=11 June 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190611153509/https://www.whatsontv.co.uk/news/ackley-bridge-rob-james-collier-martin-rule-breaker-581915/|url-status=live}} James Atherton{{Cite news|url=https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1157023/Ackley-bridge-cast-James-Atherton-Tim-Collins-new-headteacher-Sian-fiance-Channel-4/amp|title=Ackley Bridge cast: Who plays new headteacher Sian's fiancé Tim? Who is James Atherton?|work=Daily Express|access-date=5 March 2021|archive-date=1 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201201909/https://www.express.co.uk/showbiz/tv-radio/1157023/Ackley-bridge-cast-James-Atherton-Tim-Collins-new-headteacher-Sian-fiance-Channel-4/amp|url-status=live}} and Natalie Gavin, amongst others, also joined the series in recurring roles.{{Cite web|url=https://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2019-06-13/ackley-bridge-tv-time-date/|title=When is Ackley Bridge back on TV? Who's in it and what's going to happen?|website=Radio Times|language=en|access-date=5 December 2019}}{{Cite web|url=http://tv.bt.com/tv/tv-news/ackley-bridge-series-3-when-is-it-back-who-is-in-the-cast-everything-you-need-to-know-11364367805555|title=Ackley Bridge series 3: All you need to know|website=BT.com|language=en|access-date=5 December 2019|archive-date=17 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117221541/http://tv.bt.com/tv/tv-news/ackley-bridge-series-3-when-is-it-back-who-is-in-the-cast-everything-you-need-to-know-11364367805555|url-status=live}}
In December 2019, Ackley Bridge was renewed for a fourth series, and it was announced that the series would face an overhaul, including cast changes.{{Cite news|url=https://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2019-12-05/channel-4-ackley-bridge-season-four/|title=Channel 4 to bring back Ackley Bridge for 4th series – with a twist|last=Chilton|first=Louis|date=5 December 2019|work=Radio Times|access-date=5 December 2019|archive-date=5 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191205181121/https://www.radiotimes.com/news/tv/2019-12-05/channel-4-ackley-bridge-season-four/|url-status=live}} Robyn Cara was cast as Kayla Azfal, a "funny, mixed-race pupil torn between her white mum's family and her traditional Pakistani dad's family", alongside sister Marina Perry, played by Carla Woodcock, who was described by Digital Spy as a "mean girl".{{Cite news|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a33670167/ackley-bridge-season-4-new-cast/|title=Ackley Bridge reveals new cast members and shares big update on season 4|work=Digital Spy|access-date=5 October 2020|archive-date=20 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020194522/https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a33670167/ackley-bridge-season-4-new-cast/|url-status=live}} Yasmin Al-Khudhairi was cast as Fizza Akhtar, the best friend of Kayla. Ryan Dean was cast in the role of Johnny Cooper, a love interest for both Kayla and Fizza, and it was also confirmed that Connor McIntyre would guest star as Johnny's grandfather. Tahir Randhawa, played by Shobhit Piasa, was also introduced as the nephew of Kaneez. The numerous castings came as a result of numerous cast members leaving following the ending of the third series. For the fifth series, the role of Marina was recast to Megan Morgan. New castings for the series included Adam Little as Kyle Dobson, the younger brother of Marina, and Laila Zaidi as Asma Farooqi, a new "hotshot teacher [who] ruffles some feathers".{{cite news |title=It's back to the classroom as Ackley Bridge returns for a fifth series |url=https://www.channel4.com/press/news/its-back-classroom-ackley-bridge-returns-fifth-series |access-date=10 February 2022 |work=Channel 4 |date=25 November 2021}}
Episodes
{{Main|List of Ackley Bridge episodes}}
{{:List of Ackley Bridge episodes}}
Reception
=Critical reception=
Since the series was announced, Ackley Bridge has been compared to the BBC school drama Waterloo Road, with Duncan Lindsay from Metro opining that "Channel 4 have been crying out for a solid drama to fit into the early night slot" and that there has been a lack of a "solid school based drama".{{cite news|url=http://metro.co.uk/2017/05/24/ex-eastenders-star-jo-joyner-reveals-school-drama-ackley-bridge-gossip-and-is-excited-to-be-working-with-best-friend-sunetra-sarker-again-6658024/|title=Ex EastEnders star Jo Joyner reveals school drama Ackley Bridge gossip and is excited to be working with best friend Sunetra Sarker again|work=Metro|last=Lindsay|first=Duncan|date=24 May 2017|access-date=24 May 2017|archive-date=25 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525235549/http://metro.co.uk/2017/05/24/ex-eastenders-star-jo-joyner-reveals-school-drama-ackley-bridge-gossip-and-is-excited-to-be-working-with-best-friend-sunetra-sarker-again-6658024/|url-status=live}} The series has also been compared to BBC's other long-running school drama series Grange Hill, as Michael Hogan from The Daily Telegraph stated "it could be described as Grange Hill with a mobile phone and a northern accent."{{cite news |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2017/06/07/ackley-bridge-episode-one-has-promise-yet-make-grade-review |title=Ackley Bridge episode one has promise but is yet to make the grade: review |work=The Daily Telegraph |last=Hogan |first=Michael |date=7 June 2017 |access-date=13 April 2018 |archive-date=13 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413190050/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/2017/06/07/ackley-bridge-episode-one-has-promise-yet-make-grade-review/ |url-status=live |url-access=limited}} Sam Wollaston from The Guardian wrote that Ackley Bridge is similar to a mixture of Waterloo Road and Shameless, and praised their use of social media in the series. He added that the series represents real-life issues and that cultural differences "aren't denied", while also avoiding the usage of stereotypes.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2017/jun/08/ackley-bridge-review-waterloo-road-meets-shameless|title=Ackley Bridge review – Waterloo Road meets Shameless|work=The Guardian|last=Wollaston|first=Sam|date=8 June 2017|access-date=12 June 2017|archive-date=11 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170611082425/https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2017/jun/08/ackley-bridge-review-waterloo-road-meets-shameless|url-status=live}} Friar and Ryan received praise from viewers in the fourth episode of series one, where the episode revolved around the Booth sisters dealing with the death of their grandmother, played by Rita May, which leads to Hayley being placed in care.{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/news/a831926/ackley-bridge-viewers-reactions-missy-nan-dies-channel-4/|title=Ackley Bridge viewers left in tears after Missy's nan dies and her sister gets taken into care|work=Digital Spy|last=Hegarty|first=Tasha|date=28 June 2017|access-date=13 July 2017|archive-date=30 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170630225129/http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/news/a831926/ackley-bridge-viewers-reactions-missy-nan-dies-channel-4/|url-status=live}} Viewers also praised scenes of Lila Sharif, played by Anneika Rose, coming out as lesbian to her students.
Once again, Friar received praise during the teenage pregnancy storyline in series two, and the portrayal of "supportive female friendships" also received a positive reception.{{Cite news|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a863957/ackley-bridge-season-2-episode-11-pregnancy-abortion-storyline-praised/|title=Ackley Bridge continues to impress with its portrayal of teen pregnancy and abortion|work=Digital Spy|access-date=25 September 2020|archive-date=17 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117221612/https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a863957/ackley-bridge-season-2-episode-11-pregnancy-abortion-storyline-praised/|url-status=live}} The child abuse storyline in series two involving Jordan (Bottomley) and Cory Wilson (Sam Retford) received praise from media and viewers, who thanked the producers for handling a difficult subject gracefully; Joe Anderton of Digital Spy added that "we can definitely put all the comparisons to Waterloo Road aside".{{Cite news|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a859350/ackley-bridge-series-2-episode-2-child-abuse-story/|title=Ackley Bridge praised by viewers for heartbreaking story about child abuse|work=Digital Spy|access-date=5 October 2020|archive-date=9 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201009065320/https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a859350/ackley-bridge-series-2-episode-2-child-abuse-story/|url-status=live}} Retford received praise again following Cory's troubled home life, mental illness and poverty being covered, with Digital Spy noting that the Ackley Bridge "has never been one to shy away from serious, real-world issues".{{Cite news|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a862878/ackley-bridge-channel-4-cory-wilson-mental-health-storyline/|title=Channel 4's Ackley Bridge praised once more for its representation of mental health|work=Digital Spy|access-date=5 October 2020|archive-date=17 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210117221651/https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a862878/ackley-bridge-channel-4-cory-wilson-mental-health-storyline/|url-status=live}} In 2019, Nasreen was listed as one of Autostraddle{{'}}s Favourite Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans TV Characters of 2019, and was described as "groundbreaking". It was noted that representation of Muslims on primetime television is rare, and that "to have a young queer Muslim woman as, essentially, the lead character in an ensemble show" was something to be praised.{{Cite news|url=https://www.autostraddle.com/autostraddles-favorite-and-least-favorite-lesbian-bisexual-and-trans-tv-characters-of-2019/|title=Autostraddle's Favorite and Least Favorite Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans TV Characters of 2019|work=Autostraddle|date=3 December 2019|access-date=21 September 2020|archive-date=30 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200930034923/https://www.autostraddle.com/autostraddles-favorite-and-least-favorite-lesbian-bisexual-and-trans-tv-characters-of-2019/|url-status=live}}
The second and third series of Ackley Bridge was acclaimed by critics. The Guardian listed the second series as one of the best series to watch in the week it premiered, describing it as a midpoint between fellow Channel 4 programmes Hollyoaks and Shameless. They expressed their admiration for the series exploring serious issue such as race and religion without "lapsing into preachy worthiness".{{cite news |title=This week's best home entertainment: from Ackley Bridge to Frankie Goes to Russia |url=https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2018/jun/01/ackley-bridge-best-tv-this-week |access-date=24 June 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=1 June 2018 |archive-date=29 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180929223825/https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2018/jun/01/ackley-bridge-best-tv-this-week |url-status=live }} In a similar article a year later, Sarah Hughes of The Guardian praised the third series for continuing to explore dark moments while also balancing them with light-hearted comedy. Hughes appreciated Ackley Bridge "occasionally breaking out a musical interlude and tackling its teenage love stories with sensitivity and heart".{{cite news |last1=Hughes |first1=Sarah |title=Ackley Bridge: the raucous school drama that's a surprise hit with teens |url=https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2019/jun/18/ackley-bridge-channel-4-school-drama-surprise-hit-with-meme-loving-teens |access-date=24 June 2021 |work=The Guardian |date=18 June 2019 |archive-date=24 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624113436/https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2019/jun/18/ackley-bridge-channel-4-school-drama-surprise-hit-with-meme-loving-teens |url-status=live }} Following the fourth series, Kyann-Sian Williams of NME wrote that Ackley Bridge "has a few lessons to learn" from Waterloo Road.{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=Kyann-Sian |title='Ackley Bridge': what Channel 4's teen tearaways could learn from 'Waterloo Road' |url=https://www.nme.com/features/opinion/ackley-bridge-waterloo-road-2939296 |access-date=24 June 2021 |work=NME |date=3 June 2021 |archive-date=24 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624113408/https://www.nme.com/features/opinion/ackley-bridge-waterloo-road-2939296 |url-status=live }} Williams accredited Ackley Bridge with having much more diversity than Waterloo Road and felt that it gave a more representative view of northern life, but felt that Waterloo Road had more engaging drama. Williams proposed that Ackley Bridge{{'}}s earlier timeslot of 6pm for the fourth series had led to the edge being taken away and a level of naivety being added to the storylines. She also expressed a desire to see more adult-themed plotlines. Despite her criticism, she noted that the series is "worth a watch" and admired that younger viewers had formed a connection to the series. Hello! magazine also wrote that viewers disliked the balance of new characters to old characters in the fourth series, noting that they wanted to see more of the original cast members.{{cite news |title=Ackley Bridge fans have one complaint about new series |url=https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/20210420111412/ackley-bridge-channel-four-fans-have-one-complaint-new-series/ |access-date=24 June 2021 |work=Hello |archive-date=20 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210420152703/https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/20210420111412/ackley-bridge-channel-four-fans-have-one-complaint-new-series/ |url-status=live }}
=Awards and nominations=
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
- {{Channel4.com|programmes/ackley-bridge}}
- {{IMDb title}}
{{Ackley Bridge}}
Category:2017 British television series debuts
Category:2022 British television series endings
Category:2010s British LGBTQ-related drama television series
Category:2010s high school television series
Category:2020s British LGBTQ-related drama television series
Category:2020s high school television series
Category:British high school television series
Category:British teen drama television series
Category:British television soap operas
Category:Channel 4 television dramas
Category:British English-language television shows
Category:British television series about teenagers
Category:Gay-related television shows
Category:Halifax, West Yorkshire
Category:Lesbian-related television shows
Category:Race and ethnicity in television
Category:Television shows about teenage pregnancy
Category:Television series about families
Category:Television shows set in West Yorkshire