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BBC's Noughts and Crosses show casts a very surprising star

Photo credit: BBC/Mammoth Screen/Ilze Kitshoff
Photo credit: BBC/Mammoth Screen/Ilze Kitshoff

From Digital Spy

The BBC's Noughts and Crosses TV series has cast a self-professed celebrity super-fan of the original novel in a major role.

Grime star Stormzy is joining the TV version of Malorie Blackman's alternative history novel, which is set in a world where two lovers connect across a society divided by racism.

The Brit Award-winning 'Big for Your Boots' rapper will be playing newspaper editor Kolawale, a role created especially for him for Noughts and Crosses' telly adaptation.

Photo credit: BBC/Mammoth Screen/Ilze Kitshoff
Photo credit: BBC/Mammoth Screen/Ilze Kitshoff

"As a diehard fan of Malorie's novels, being a part of this important show is a dream come true," Stormzy said today (March 21).

Stormzy joins Peaky Blinders actor Kevin Garvey and newcomer Masali Baduza, whose characters Callum McGregor and Sephy Hadley offer a glimmer of hope with blooming love in tortured world.

"The first time I met Stormzy he informed me he was a huge fan of my Noughts and Crosses series of books," author Malorie Blackman said.

"I’m thrilled he will now be a part of the Noughts + Crosses TV production. It's so exciting!”

Photo credit: Joseph Okpako - Getty Images
Photo credit: Joseph Okpako - Getty Images

This won't be Stormzy's acting debut - far from it, actually. The musician memorably appeared in the cult hit comedy series Chewing Gum and also had a supporting role in Noel Clarke's Kidulthood sequel Brotherhood.

Noughts and Crosses is currently being filmed on location in South Africa. A premiere date for the series - which will also feature Cold Feet's Helen Baxendale and Timeless' Paterson Joseph - on BBC One has not yet been announced.


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