The BBC has acquired the award-winning French drama "The Intruder" for BBC iPlayer and BBC Four, securing UK rights to the four-part psychological thriller distributed internationally by ITV Studios. Originally commissioned by France 2, the suspense-filled series is produced by Tetra Media Fiction (TM Studios), part of ITV Studios, in co-production with France Télévisions.
Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, commented: “'The Intruder' is a stylish psychological thriller which gradually builds to a nail-biting race against time, ensuring that viewers will be addicted to the very end.”
"The Intruder" ("L'Intru") stars Mélanie Doutey ("Post Partum," "Le Bal des actrices") as Paula, a mother of three on the verge of ending her maternity leave. Struggling with the transition back to work, she hires Tess, played by Lucie Fagedet ("Mr & Mme Adelman," "The Sense of Wonder"), as a live-in au pair. At first, Tess seems ideal—well-mannered, competent, and adored by the children. However, Paula's initial relief gives way to suspicion as minor domestic incidents begin to mount.
As the line between reality and paranoia blurs, Paula begins to fear Tess is deliberately undermining her. Is Paula suffering from postpartum anxiety, or is there a more calculated threat behind Tess's arrival? Éric Caravaca ("Plot 35," "C’est quoi la vie?") also features in this taut psychological drama that weaves suspense with themes of motherhood, trust, and hidden trauma.
Created by Nathalie Abdelnour and co-written with Nathalie Saugeon, "The Intruder" is directed by Shirley Monsarrat and produced by Lèa Gabrié. The executive producer is Marie Madec, whose previous credits include "Speakerine" and "Sur le fil." With its twist-laden narrative and high production values, the acquisition reinforces BBC Four’s commitment to offering internationally acclaimed drama to UK audiences.