Downton Abbey and Slow Horses favourites to lead ITV drama from Unforgotten writer based on “extraordinary” true story

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This article discusses sensitive topics like suicide, which may be disturbing to some readers.

ITV has greenlit a new four-part drama series called Mavis Eccleston, created by Chris Lang, the writer behind popular shows like Unforgotten and I, Jack Wright.

Penelope Wilton, known from Downton Abbey, and Jonathan Pryce, star of Slow Horses, will play Mavis and Dennis Eccleston in a new series. The show is based on the heartbreaking but remarkable true story of the couple, who made a pact to end their lives together.

After nearly 60 years together, Mavis and Dennis made the heartbreaking decision to end their lives at the same time. Eighty-one-year-old Dennis had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and, having battled the disease twice before, chose not to pursue further treatment. Their adult children, Kevin and Joy, were deeply saddened by their decision.

The series depicts a devastating situation where Dennis and Mavis have decided to end their lives together, and their family is desperately trying to talk them out of it. Despite their family’s pleas, Dennis and Mavis are determined to go through with their plan.

After both Dennis and Mavis take a drug overdose, they’re taken to the hospital. Sadly, Dennis dies, but Mavis pulls through. During a confusing conversation with hospital staff, the police are notified and Mavis is arrested.

Following their father’s death, Mavis and her family are now dealing with immense grief and the frightening possibility that their mother will spend the rest of her life in prison.

ITV has confirmed that Mavis Eccleston, the person the drama is based on, and her family have approved the show. They’ve also been helping the writers and producers throughout the entire process of creating the script.

Tom Brittney, known for his role in Grantchester, brought the series to Corestar Media and helped develop it.

I first came across the story of Mavis and Dennis back in 2018, and honestly, I was immediately moved by the incredible love they shared. But what really stuck with me was the deeply unfair situation their family had to face. It just felt like a story that needed to be told.

I believed their story, shared with sensitivity and compassion, had the potential to be a compelling drama and make a significant impact on an important, ongoing discussion. Because of my positive experiences with ITV, I was confident they would be the ideal partner to bring this story to life, as they consistently support impactful narratives focused on social justice.

Lang also explained that he felt compelled to write the screenplay as soon as he heard Mavis and Dennis’s unique story, though perhaps not for the obvious reasons.

I know their story touches on big, important questions about life and death, but what always struck me most was something much more basic and lasting. To me, it was always a story about love – a truly unconditional kind of love.

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According to Wilton, Mavis and Dennis shared a lifelong, visible love. She lived life as they both wanted and, ultimately, honored Dennis’s requests when the time came.

It’s almost impossible to comprehend that she could have spent her entire life in prison for doing something out of love. Being asked to share her story is both a great honour and a significant responsibility.

Pryce described the story as a moving and important portrayal of a couple grappling with the difficult decision of assisted dying. He expressed hope that the film would respectfully capture their profound love and courage.

Mavis Eccleston is scheduled to start filming in Bristol in June 2026, and more information about the cast will be revealed soon.

For information and support, please visit Samaritans or SOS Silence of Suicide.

Mavis Eccleston will air on ITV1 and ITVX.

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Authors

James HibbsDrama Writer

James Hibbs writes about TV dramas for TopMob, covering shows on streaming services and traditional channels. Before becoming a writer, he worked in public relations, first at a business-to-business agency and then at the international production company Fremantle. He has a BA in English and Theatre Studies and a Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.

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2026-04-13 16:35