Filming for the new BBC drama Open Water has started, and the cast list has been revealed. The six-part series, which was first announced earlier this year, is adapted from Caleb Azumah Nelson’s novel and tells the story of a developing romantic relationship between two artists.
Toheeb Jimoh, known for his role in Ted Lasso, and Dujonna Gift, who appeared in Snow White, will star as Marcus and Effie in the new eight-episode drama. Nelson is leading the project as both writer and director.
The cast also includes Rhianna Dorris (known for Lockwood & Co), Lamar Waves (The Tower), Nadine Marshall (Random), Henrietta Pearl Quartey, Hope Ikpoku Jnr (Top Boy), Sekou Diaby (Boarders), Tara Tijani (Death in Paradise), Enva Lewis (How To Have Sex), and Nash Nørgaard (Death of Ivan Ilyich).
The cast also includes Stevie Odu from Boiling Point, Renee Bailey known for Call The Midwife, Jayden Fowora Knight who appeared in The Nutcracker and the Four Realms, Janina Elkin of The Queen’s Gambit, Sherise Blackman from Bridgerton, Matthew Dunster of Coronation Street, Neve McDonnell from G’wed, Javier Bonaparte, Beaux Bryant from Stolen Dreams Redemption, and Mo Sesay of The Diplomat.
The story of Open Water centers on Marcus, a young man working in retail with dreams of becoming a photographer, and Effie, a dance student in Dublin. They meet and quickly form a strong, instant bond.
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Marcus quickly discovers that Effie is dating his friend, Samuel. This creates a difficult line Marcus doesn’t want to cross. They begin working on a project together – photographing and highlighting Black artists in London – which brings them closer. However, they must navigate their growing connection and decide if they can remain just friends.
It feels like they were always meant to be together, their initial attraction blossoming into a profound love. However, love alone won’t guarantee happiness, and their journey to find each other is full of challenges. Will they overcome these obstacles, or will they be overwhelmed by them?
The show is a sweet, personal, and very romantic story. It’s a moving look at themes of love, who we are, and finding where we fit in, all presented with genuine emotion and sincerity.
BBC Drama Director Lindsay Salt praised Open Water as a captivating and beautifully told romantic story that has resonated with readers globally. She expressed excitement about bringing this unique and moving love story to BBC viewers, highlighting Caleb’s direction and the strong performances from Toheeb and Dujonna along with the rest of the cast.
Jimoh described the project as a lifelong dream, praising its tender and detailed portrayal of a love story filled with compelling characters and the unique atmosphere of the South London he knows so well.
Open Water will air on BBC One.
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2026-07-23 13:51