If you haven't gotten around to reading to Holding, the debut novel by Irish national treasure and gatekeeper of the infamous Red Chair Graham Norton, now's the time to smash that Amazon Prime order button to get yourself a copy as it's been announced the book is being adapted into a four-part TV series.
For those unfamiliar with the book, the premise is centred around Irish police officer (a Garda to us but we'll say no more), Sergeant PJ Collins, described as a gentle but towering man who keeps to himself in the fictional village of Duneen in West Cork.
Collins' life is defined by his habit of comfort eating alone and a lack of ambition but when the body of local man Tommy Burke is discovered, it's his chance to solve the first serious crime of his career.
The character of PJ Collins will be played by the Northern Irish actor Conleth Hill who most will recognise from his time playing Varys on the HBO sci-fi smash Games of Thrones, or perhaps more recently for his recurring role as Superintendent O'Kelly in Dublin Murders.
Holding's adaptation to the small screen has been helmed by writer Karen Cogan and producer Dominic Treadwell-Collins who's best known for his work on East Enders whodunnit storylines such as the murders of Alfie Mitchell and Lucy Beale. The series will be directed by the acclaimed actress, comedian and writer Kathy Burke, known for appearances in canon British comedy shows such as Absolutely Fabulous and French and Saunders.
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Commenting on the novel's move to the small screen, Graham Norton commented: "I am beyond excited to see the story and characters I created being brought to the screen. I love how the brilliant creative team have transformed my novel into something so rich and dramatic. West Cork is ready for its close-up!" Isn't it always?
In addition to Holding, Norton has since released a further two novels entitled A Keeper and Home Stretch, both of which centre Irish characters and their relationship to their small hometowns. The presenter also recently launched a book club podcast available exclusively on Audible.
The Holding series is set to air on ITV in the UK, and most likely Virgin Media Television here in Ireland, with filming due to kick off in Cork this summer.
Featured Image Credit: PA Media on behalf of So TV/PA WireTopics: Ireland, Graham Norton