Nicola Coughlan and Joe Cole have been photographed together for the first time on set in I AM HELEN, the latest instalment in Dominic Savage’s acclaimed I AM series for Channel 4. The images give us an early glimpse of the two actors in character, seated on a bed in what appears to be a tense, heated exchange between a couple — though Cole’s role officially remains under wraps for now.

Coughlan, best known internationally for BRIDGERTON, developed the story alongside Savage, who once again serves as writer and director on the project. Award-winning Me+You Productions returns as producer. The synopsis describes a drama told through a female lens, one that examines the pressures and expectations placed on women while confronting the realities of toxic masculinity and the damage it can cause in modern relationships — territory that feels both timely and personal to the series’ broader ambitions.

I AM HELEN marks a first in the show’s history, stretching its story across two episodes rather than the single-episode format that has defined previous instalments. The series has built a remarkable track record since its debut, with Vicky McClure, Samantha Morton, Gemma Chan, Suranne Jones, Letitia Wright and Lesley Manville each having taken the lead in earlier episodes. The most recent entry, I AM RUTH, starred Kate Winslet and aired in 2022 to widespread acclaim.

Both episodes of I AM HELEN are set to air on Channel 4 later this year.