Filming has begun in Dublin for the upcoming TV series Leonard and Hungry Paul, produced by Subotica for the BBC.

Announced as part of the BBC Comedy Festival in Belfast, the series is based on the award-winning novel of the same name, written by Rónán Hession and adapted by Richie Conroy and Mark Hodkinson.

Directed by Andrew Chaplin, the cast includes Alex Lawther of The End of the F***ing World, Laurie Kynaston of Fool Me Once and Jamie-Lee O’Donnell of Derry Girls. The plot follows two unique friends navigating suburban life.

“At a time when most shows involve dragons, detectives, or existential dread, Leonard & Hungry Paul takes a slower route - through kindness, the quiet gravity of small things, and the occasional game of backgammon,” said Chaplin. “Proof that not all heroes shout - some just know when to stay quiet.”

Filming for the show will continue in Ireland throughout May.

"I am delighted to see Leonard and Hungry Paul being adapted for the screen,” said Hession. “It's a real privilege as a writer to see my work being brought to life in a different creative form."

The novel, published by Bluemoose Books, has sold over 300,000 copies worldwide and has been translated into 6 languages. It was shortlisted for six major literary prizes and chosen for 1Dublin1Book in 2022.

“This series promises something special and is full of charm and poignant moments that encapsulate ordinary life,” said Senior Head of Content Commissioning for BBC Northern Ireland, Eddie Doyle. “With a stellar cast bringing this acclaimed novel to the screen, it will make an exciting addition to BBC Northern Ireland’s offering this year.”