Sky has commissioned ITV Studios-owned The Garden to produce the four-part The Wargame, based on the Sky News podcast of the same name, simulating the response to a Russian attack on the U.K.
The production is set inside a COBR-style crisis room as politicians, military leaders, and intelligence chiefs deal with a Russian attack on U.K. soil. It is set six months in the future and was developed in conjunction with leading academics, military, and defense experts. Among those advising on the simulation is Deborah Haynes, Sky News’ security and defense editor. An array of public figures from the U.K. are participating, among them Michael Gove, Nicola Sturgeon, Penny Mordaunt, Sayeeda Warsi, Harriet Harman, Jim Murphy, Ayesha Hazarika, General Sir Richard Barrons, Kim Darroch, Christopher Steele, Lord George Robertson, and Anthony Scaramucci. A team of Russia experts, led by Keir Giles, serves as the opposition.
“A year ago, Sky News’ groundbreaking original podcast The Wargame captivated listeners, shedding light on the impossible choices our country’s leaders face under escalating military threat,” said Phil Edgar-Jones, executive director of unscripted originals at Sky. “Now working with the talented team at The Garden, we’re bringing The Wargame to new audiences in a visceral new TV format, which will challenge some of the most experienced political and military minds in the country to imagine how they might respond under threat of war. At a time when we are facing increasing threats from all sides, this series couldn’t be more timely.”
Nicola Brown, EP at The Garden, added, “The news brings a near-constant stream of information about the threats we face as a country, but do we really know what would happen if the U.K. came under attack, or how prepared we really are? In a simulated crisis scenario, where actions can have world-changing consequences, The Wargame will put viewers in the room to see firsthand how decisions are made at the highest level. We’re thrilled to be working with Sky on this important series.”
Transmission is slated for September.
