Category: TV Drama
Date: 26.07.2005
Printable version
Helena Bonham Carter is to star as Maggi, a mother with seven children - three 'normal' daughters and four sons who are each, in one form or another, autistic - in BBC TWO's uplifting drama Magnificent 7.
The production is inspired by real life supermum Jacqui Jackson and her extraordinary children, who were featured in BBC TWO's documentary, My Family and Autism, shown in 2003. Jacqui Jackson has worked as a consultant on the production.
Written by Sandy Welch (North and South), Magnificent 7 is a warm, poignant and enriching story which looks at the struggles, tears, laughter and moments of magic that this surprising household experience over the course of a year.
Helena Bonham Carter said: "I found the script funny, touching and humane. Hopefully, this film will help people to understand what it is like to be autistic, and moreover, celebrate rather than marginalise what it is to be 'different'."
Curtis is supersensitive and allergic to everything, including Christmas and the colour red. David - with ADHD - is a mini-whirlwind, creative and destructive in equal measures. Christopher has Asperger's syndrome and with it a problem with anything that doesn't say exactly what it means. Richard hates surprises and being jolly.
Producer Deborah Jones said: "We are delighted that Helena is to portray Maggi, whose determination to do the best for all her family and her loving and chaotic world is truly uplifting.
"Inspired by the real life Jacqui Jackson, Magnificent 7 will give viewers a truthful insight into her life and those of her extraordinary children. As a drama, this will be an urban fairytale - funny, heartbreaking and inspirational."
Roly Keating, Controller of BBC TWO, said: "Helena Bonham Carter is a stunning signing for this strongly authored single drama inspired by Jacqui Jackson's incredible story of triumph over adversity.
"She will bring poignancy and spirit to this modern day tale of family life."
Magnificent 7 is currently being filmed in Bolton and Blackpool and all the children have been drawn from the local area.
It is directed by Kenny Glenaan (Yasmin, The Cops) and executive producers are Laura Mackie and Richard Stokes.
