Floodlights, a new feature-length single drama for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer from Expectation, tells the impactful and important story of Andy Woodward, the former professional footballer whose brave revelations about the sexual abuse he suffered as a youth player sent shockwaves throughout the industry and across the globe.
In November 2016, Andy found the strength to go public about horrific sexual abuse by his youth coach, Barry Bennell. After doing so, hundreds more men, many also victims of Bennell, found the courage to speak up about their harrowing experiences of abuse, lifting the lid on a national scandal in the country’s most popular sport.
Floodlights is written by the award-winning screenwriter, Matt Greenhalgh and directed by BAFTA-nominated Nick Rowland . It is produced by Expectation – in association with Only The Best – for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.
Gerard Kearns portrays Andy Woodward, with Jonas Armstrong , Morven Christie , and Steve Edge also starring.
The factual drama depicts Andy’s life, from a boy with a passion for the game to a successful professional footballer who seemingly has the world at his feet, until, no longer able to ignore the haunting memories of the abuse he was subject to by his youth coach, his career is cut short. It examines the power and control held by Bennell, grooming young players and their families with the promise of making their dreams come true.
Floodlights is made with the full cooperation of Andy Woodward.
Andy Woodward says: “Since speaking out in 2016 I’ve wanted to continue to encourage people to talk without fear, to make a change. Floodlights tells my story, which no child should ever have to go through. I hope this film helps to stop abuse in football and in all areas of life.”
Gerard Kearns, says: “I am honoured to be playing Andrew Woodward and hope that we have done his story justice.”
Matt Greenhalgh, says: “I was in the crowd at Maine Road when Bury FC beat my team, Manchester City, 0-1 in 1998. Andy Woodward was playing for Bury.. and was outstanding. When his brutal story broke I remember being stunned not only by the magnanimity of his courage, but by how this could happen in our national sport. His horrific revelations were undoubtedly a pivotal moment for football… but also for many, many men. Andy’s story more than deserves telling as drama, so that it can keep on telling, and informing the next generation of parents and kids. And I am very proud to be part of his honourable fight to expose those who prey on children in any walk of life.”
Floodlights will air on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer this Spring.
