HBO has ordered the limited series “The Trial of Louise Woodward” with Meghann Fahy attached to play the lead role.
The five-episode series is based on a true story. Matthew Barry (“Industry,” “The Guest) serves as writer, executive producer, and showrunner. Susanne Bier (“Practical Magic 2,” “The Night Manager”) is attached to direct all episodes and executive produce. It is slated to premiere in 2027.
The logline for the project states that it tells the “shocking true story of how, in 1997, an 18-year-old British au pair was accused of shaking to death a baby left in her care by her American host family, setting off an international media firestorm as the trial unfolds in full view of both the British and American public.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Matthew Barry and Susanne Bier on this new series and to welcome Meghann Fahy back to the HBO family,” said Francesca Orsi, executive vice president of HBO Programming and head of HBO Drama Series and Films. “Matthew’s compassionate approach to this gripping true story, paired with Susanne’s powerfully distinct directorial vision and Meghann’s exceptional talent, has brought together an extraordinary creative team whose work we’re excited to share with our audience soon.”
Along with Barry and Bier, Big Light Productions founder Frank Spotnitz will serve as executive producer alongside Emily Feller, Tobi de Graaff, and Antoine Douaihy.
“The trial of Louise Woodward raised profound questions about childcare, working mothers, class, and the role of an emerging 24/7 media,” Barry said. “Thirty years later, those questions feel more urgent and relevant than ever. I’m grateful to be working with Susanne and our partners at HBO to bring this story, in all its complexity, to the screen.”
Fahy received an Emmy nomination in 2023 for her role in Season 2 of HBO’s hit series “The White Lotus.” She received her second Emmy nod in 2025 for the Netflix series “Sirens.” She is best known for starring in the Freeform drama “The Bold Type,” starring in that show throughout its five-season run at the basic cabler. Her film roles include “Drop” and “Burning Bodhi.”
Fahy is repped by WME, Anonymous Content, and Sloane Offer. Barry is repped by The Agency and WME. Bier is repped by CAA, Brillstein Entertainment Partners, and Jackoway Austin Tyerman.