BBC Three Acquires RTÉ2 series Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope

BBC Three yesterday confirmed that it has acquired the six-part series, commissioned and funded by RTÉ and made by Deadpan Pictures, with the series to air online later this year.

Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope, a darkly comic drama following the lives of two young women, Aisling (Seána Kerslake) and Danielle (Nika McGuigan) was directed by Cathy Brady and debuted to widespread acclaim on RTÉ2 last year.

RTÉ head of Comedy, Music and Talent Development Eddie Doyle said: “This deal is a real breakthrough for RTÉ’s comedy department. It’s the first time since Paths to Freedom that RTÉ has sold a home-grown comedy-drama series to the BBC. Stefanie Preissner is one of Ireland’s most exciting new writing talents, and we are thrilled that we can now bring Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope to a broader audience. It also comes on the back of Bridget and Eamon's successful debut on UKTV and highlights how Irish writers, producers and broadcasters can compete in one of the biggest, most creative comedy marketplaces in the world.”

Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope was commissioned by RTÉ with the support of BAI and Section 481 and with Content Media representing international rights. It was confirmed earlier this year that a second series of Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope is currently in the development.

Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope producer and co-owner of Deadpan Pictures, Ailish McElmeel said: “I’m thrilled that the BBC are bringing Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope to UK audiences. BBC Three is the perfect home for our girls, Aisling and Danielle. We’re grateful for the continued support of Content Media, our sales company, the BAI’s Sound and Vision Fund and the fantastic support of the RTÉ comedy department. We hope to bring audiences series two later this year.”

You can read our interview with Can't Cope, Won't Cope writer Stefanie Preissner here: hoptpress.com/An-Interview-with-Stefanie-Preissner