Jude Law to Portray Iconic Football Manager Bill Shankly in New Drama Series
Liverpool, Saturday, 17 October 2026.
Actor Jude Law will star as Liverpool Football Club’s legendary manager Bill Shankly in a drama exploring the club’s profound cultural impact and historic rise to dominance.
Strategic Partnership Announced
Independent studio A24 is expanding its television portfolio by partnering with British actor Jude Law and screenwriter Jack Thorne for a drama series centered on Bill Shankly, the iconic manager of Liverpool Football Club [1][3]. The project highlights a broader entertainment industry trend where studios capitalize on global sports heritage and intellectual property to drive premium international content [1]. Reports confirmed on 16 October 2026 indicate Law is set to star as the legendary manager, marking a significant addition to the studio’s high-profile slate [4][5].
Development Details
Bill Shankly managed Liverpool FC from December 1959 to 1974, leading the club to promotion from the Second Division and securing three First Division Championships during his tenure 15 [1][3]. The series aims to explore the club’s culture and the relationship between the team and its supporters, beginning with Shankly’s era [3]. While the project was originally announced in December 2024, recent updates confirm active development with Law attached to the lead role [1][2].
Production and Negotiations
Liverpool FC Chairman Tom Werner is currently in negotiations with broadcasters and streamers for the project, which is intended to film on location in Liverpool and at Anfield [1]. Jack Thorne has completed the first two episodes, and producer Werner’s team has initiated discussions with platforms to secure distribution [2][3]. Although some earlier updates suggested potential shifts in production partners, the most recent confirmations from 16 October 2026 reaffirm A24’s involvement in the series [5][6].
Cultural Scope
The narrative intends to cover the 1960s Liverpool cultural scene, including the influence of The Beatles and Merseybeat music, alongside the club’s history [3]. Future seasons of the series are intended to cover the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, where 97 people died and over 750 were injured at the Hillsborough Stadium in Sheffield [1][3]. [alert! ‘Future seasons covering Hillsborough are pending series success and not yet confirmed for production’] [1].
Cast and Legacy
Jude Law, a known supporter of Tottenham Hotspur, described the role as a privilege and a chance to showcase Shankly’s story to the wider world [2][7]. The production involves Shankly’s granddaughter, Karen Gill, and aims to honor the legacy of the club and its connection to the local community [2][6]. Filming locations are confirmed to be in Liverpool and at Anfield, though no specific production start date has been provided [2][3].