Michaela Coel, the visionary creator, director, and leading lady behind the groundbreaking series "I May Destroy You," is reuniting with HBO and the BBC for her next captivating venture. Together, these esteemed platforms will co-produce "First Day on Earth," a deeply personal narrative conceived and headlined by Coel herself. In this latest endeavor, Coel embodies Henri, a British writer who embarks on a journey to Ghana, the homeland of her parents, to work on a film production. This project is further bolstered by the collaborative efforts of Various Artists Limited, which boasts the likes of "Succession" creator Jesse Armstrong among its esteemed ranks (and was also behind "I May Destroy You"), and the prestigious A24 studio.
"I am overjoyed to once again collaborate with VAL, HBO, and the BBC, and to forge a partnership with A24. With their impeccable taste, meticulous care, and unparalleled expertise, I have every confidence that our show is in capable hands," expressed Coel in a heartfelt statement. "'First Day on Earth' holds a special place in my heart, and I sincerely hope it resonates with audiences worldwide. I eagerly anticipate sharing Henri's transformative journey with the world."
The series paints a vivid picture of Henri's life at a crossroads: a British novelist struggling with creative block and a stagnant relationship. When an opportunity arises to work on a film in Ghana, the land of her roots and where her estranged father resides, she seizes it as a chance for renewal and reconnection. However, upon arrival, reality proves vastly different from her expectations, as Henri confronts dangers, hypocrisy, and the shattering of her illusions. Amidst these challenges, she forges new friendships, sheds old identities, and embarks on a quest to redefine herself – a path that may lead to unparalleled strength, but also threatens to consume her.
"I May Destroy You" was a critical darling in 2020, earning Coel an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series and BAFTA TV Awards for Best Miniseries, as well as accolades for her lead performance, writing, and directing (shared with Sam Miller). "First Day on Earth" marks Coel's triumphant return to the series realm, promising an equally immersive and thought-provoking experience for viewers.
Michaela's words possess a captivating power that transcends boundaries, transporting readers to realms unparalleled. Amy Gravitt, Executive Vice President of Comedy Programming at HBO and Max, enthused, "I am overjoyed to embark on this continuation of the dialogue ignited by I May Destroy You, hand in hand with our esteemed partners at VAL, A24, and the BBC. With Henri as our beacon, First Day on Earth delves into the essence of 'home' with a poignancy that is both lyrical and deeply visceral."
Echoing this sentiment, Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, exclaimed, "Michaela stands among the rare few whose artistry I have long held in high esteem. In fact, I May Destroy You was one of the driving forces behind my decision to join the BBC! With First Day on Earth, Michaela has crafted another masterpiece—a series that is unparalleled in its originality, heartwarming depth, hilarious wit, and poetic narrative. I am eagerly anticipating the world's encounter with this extraordinary work."
Coel, the mastermind behind First Day on Earth, will pen the script and executive produce alongside Armstrong, Phil Clarke, and Roberto Troni for Various Artists Limited, Jo McClellan for the BBC, and Piers Wenger for A24. Filming is poised to commence in 2025, and Clarke and Troni expressed their profound gratitude, stating, "We feel immensely fortunate that Michaela has chosen to entrust us with her dazzling new creation, following the remarkable journey we shared on I May Destroy You. Once again, Michaela weaves a tale that is both highly original and singular, exploring the intricate bond between England and Ghana through the lens of a second-generation British-Ghanaian woman. As she embarks on a journey to her parents' homeland, she encounters a tapestry of unforgettable characters and experiences that challenge her to confront painful truths about her roots. But true to Michaela's style, this narrative is a rollercoaster of shock, humor, and unforgettable moments, all imbued with her inimitable flair."
