Erin Richards, best known for her roles in Gotham and The Crown, is making a homecoming to Welsh screens in Ar y Ffin (One the Edge/Border), a new crime drama set in Newport. Premiering on 29 December on S4C, the six-part series will also be available as a boxset on S4C Clic and BBC iPlayer.
The drama, produced by Severn Screen, follows magistrate Claire Lewis Jones, played by Erin, as she navigates a web of crime at Newport’s Magistrates Court, a path that threatens to unravel her family life. Joining Erin is Tom Cullen (The Gold, Becoming Elizabeth) as Saint Pete, a menacing local crime boss.
Erin shared her excitement about the project:
‘I read the first three episodes and just felt Claire was such an interesting character in a relatable world. I was really excited to find out how the story would progress. I felt I could empathise with Claire – I could feel myself in the character.
‘I had probably the best time I’ve ever had filming this series. Having spent much of my career in America, it was so lovely to come back to Wales. The crew was so friendly, and we all bonded so quickly.’
The series, co-written by Hannah Daniel (Keeping Faith, Holby City) and real-life magistrate Georgina Lee, offers an authentic look at life in the justice system. Georgina explained:
‘Being a magistrate is interesting because it’s a volunteer role, but it carries a lot of power. We wanted to explore a moral character like Claire and imagine what would make her tip the scales of justice.’
The choice of Newport as a backdrop adds a unique charm. Hannah said:
‘Newport has always been seen as Cardiff’s poorer relative, but it’s got so much to offer. The mudflats, the courthouse – it just felt right for us. It’s a cinematic city with a resilience and humour that shine through in the series.’
Ar y Ffin boasts a stellar cast, including Matthew Gravelle (Broadchurch), Kimberly Nixon (The Salisbury Poisonings), and Ifan Huw Dafydd (Y Golau).
Gwenllian Gravelle, S4C’s Drama Commissioner, added:
‘This pacey thriller showcases a unique part of the world while asking universal questions about parenthood and how far we’ll go to protect our loved ones. With a gripping script and stellar cast, audiences are in for a treat.’
Ar y Ffin lands on S4C on 29 December. Don’t miss it!
You must be logged in to post a comment.