ITV haven’t exactly had a successful time of it with regards to supernatural/fantasy dramas of late. In fact, they haven’t really had a good time of it with absolutely anything they’ve aired for far too long. Well, they’re looking to change that with a newly commissioned supernatural programme starring Alex Kingston.

The Moll Flanders/ER/Doctor Who actress and Wired star Jodie Whittaker will lead the cast of The Oaks, which is described as “gripping” (by someone with a vested interest in the show no doubt).

The five-parter will tell the story of three different families living in the same house over several decades: the 1960s, 1980s and present day. The families are linked by the spirit of a young girl, the daughter of the 1960s family who died in mysterious circumstances.

WOOOOO!

Kingston and Whittaker are joined by cast members including Ashes To Ashes star Dean Andrews, Shelley Conn (Mistresses), Elliot Cowan (The Fixer), Denis Lawson (Criminal Justice), Jamie Thomas King (The Tudors) and Tessa Peake-Jones (Only Fools and Horses).

BRRRRRR!

“The Oaks is a really original concept that blends relationship drama with an atmospheric ghost story,” said Laura Mackie of ITV’s drama commissioning team. Stephen’s scripts are compellingly written and this is a very distinctive drama to add to our slate.”

Executive Producer Kate Lewis added: “This is a strongly authored, ambitious piece and we’re thrilled to have such an exciting and talented cast on board.”

WUUUUGH!