"Diversity deepens our understanding"
Jameela Jamil is set to guest star in The Split Up, a new six-part BBC legal drama centred on Manchester’s high-net-worth divorce scene.
The upcoming series explores the tensions, secrets and ambitions of a powerful British South Asian family law firm.
Shot on set this week, Jameela was seen alongside The Umbrella Academy star Ritu Arya, who plays Aria Kishan.
The show marks Jameela Jamil’s first TV role since her 2023 appearance in Poker Face.
Jameela is best known for her roles in The Good Place and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.
Created by Ursula Rani Sarma and based on Abi Morgan’s award-winning series The Split, the show is produced by SISTER in association with Little Chick. It will premiere on BBC iPlayer and BBC One.
Joining Ritu Arya and Sanjeev Bhaskar are Aysha Kala, Arian Nik and Danny Ashok.
As well as Jameela, other guest stars include Lenny Henry and Jane Horrocks.
Set in the world of Manchester’s elite divorce circuit, The Split Up centres on Kishan Law, a prestigious family-run firm known for its influence and discretion.
Aria Kishan (Ritu Arya) is the rising star of the business, preparing to take over from her father Dhruv (Sanjeev Bhaskar).
But the death of her mother forces Dhruv to question whether his daughter can, or should, take on the burden alone.
Aria’s personal life also becomes entangled in her professional one as she prepares to marry Neal (Danny Ashok).
When a former flame, played by Dimitri Leonidas, returns to Manchester, her loyalties are tested further.
Together with her siblings Maya (Aysha Kala) and Kav (Arian Nik), Aria must face the divides that threaten both her family and her future.
Screenwriter Ursula Rani Sarma said:
“Having admired The Split and Abi Morgan for years, I was honoured to be asked to bring The Split Up to life.”
“As a writer passionate about representation, it’s a dream come true to place a contemporary British South Asian family centre stage.
“Diversity deepens our understanding, enriches our stories, and reflects the true fabric of our society.
“It’s thrilling to watch our amazing cast, led by Ritu and Sanjeev, bring the Kishan family to life.
“I can’t wait for audiences to meet them and to witness the drama as it unfolds.”
With Jameela Jamil joining a diverse cast of established and emerging talent, The Split Up promises to be one of the BBC’s most anticipated dramas, a rare spotlight on British South Asian life in the legal world.
Loading ...