Written by and starring the multi-award-winning Morwenna Banks (Slow Horses) and directed by Bafta nominee Oliver Parker, Funny Woman has a brilliant cast lined up alongside Arterton.

The ensemble includes Rupert Everett (My Best Friend’s Wedding) as Barbara’s agent, Brian Debenham; David Threlfall (Shameless) as Barbara’s father, George; and Tom Bateman (Murder On The Orient Express) as dangerously charming actor Clive.

The cast also stars Clare-Hope Ashitey (Top Boy), Arsher Ali (Line Of Duty), Alexa Davies (White House Farm), Emily Bevan (Temple), Leo Bill (Becoming Elizabeth), Matthew Beard (Vienna Blood), Olivia Williams (The Crown), Rosie Cavaliero (Code 404) and Alistair Petrie (Sex Education).

“It’s a heartwarming story of an ambitious woman with a dream of making people laugh – it’s going to be something special,” Arterton commented in a statement.

“It’s an honour to be working with such an incredible team and be reunited with my first ever director, Oliver Parker.”

Funny Woman will air on Sky Max from 9 February 2023.

Funny Woman: watch the exclusive trailer for Gemma Arterton’s new Sky TV series