Ava Pickett’s play 1536 adapted into BBC One Tudor drama series
The BBC has commissioned an eight-part television adaptation of Ava Pickett’s acclaimed play 1536, set in Tudor England during Anne Boleyn’s arrest. The series, produced by Drama Republic, will air on BBC One and stream on BBC iPlayer, marking a significant expansion of Pickett’s story to a wider audience.
1536, Ava Pickett’s award-winning debut play, is being transformed into a drama series that follows three young women living in an Essex village as they react to the arrest of Queen Anne Boleyn by Henry VIII. The series explores how the political upheaval reverberates through their lives, offering a fresh perspective on this pivotal moment in history.
The BBC has partnered with Drama Republic to produce the eight-part drama, which will be broadcast on BBC One and available on BBC iPlayer. Pickett herself has written the television series and serves as an executive producer alongside Jude Liknaitzky, Roanna Benn, Rebecca de Souza and Chloe Beeson.
Pickett said the adaptation is a chance to deepen the lives of the characters Anna, Jane and Mariella, and described the story as “more relevant than ever” in a world shaped by decisions made in corridors of power. Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, praised the piece as “visceral, funny, provocative, timely and full of courage,” highlighting Pickett’s exceptional voice.
The original play premiered at the Almeida Theatre, where it enjoyed a sold-out run before preparing for a West End transfer. The production team now includes Margot Robbie’s LuckyChap alongside Sonia Friedman Productions, Annapurna Theatre and the Almeida Theatre. Robbie praised the play as a “phenomenal piece of art,” applauding its bold, female-driven narrative and emotional resonance.
1536 has already earned Pickett notable recognition, including the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize and Best Writer at the Stage Debut Awards. She has been identified as a theatre talent to watch by WhatsOnStage for 2026. Alongside this adaptation, Pickett has other projects underway including two new shows and a film about Joan of Arc with Baz Luhrmann.
Further details about the BBC series, including casting and release dates, are yet to be announced. This new adaptation underscores ongoing interest in stories that examine historic women’s perspectives within politically charged eras.
