The controversial series is expected to finally arrive before the end of the year. <\/p>
Further casting has been unveiled for BBC One\u2019s upcoming drama The Reckoning<\/a>, which explores the devastating impact that disgraced broadcaster Jimmy Savile had on so many lives \u2013 and how he got away with it for so long.<\/p>\n As previously announced, Steve Coogan will be playing the reviled figure himself, which the prolific actor has previously stated<\/a> \u201cwas not a decision I took lightly\u201d.<\/p>\n The series has proven controversial, with the official synopsis countering critics by stating: \u201cIt is important to understand how he was able to hide in plain sight in order to gain a greater understanding of how he evaded justice.\u201d<\/p>\n It also notes that the team behind The Reckoning<\/a>, led by writer Neil McKay and executive producer Jeff Pope (Four Lives<\/a>), have worked closely with \u201cmany people\u201d affected by Savile to ensure the story is told with \u201csensitivity and respect\u201d.<\/p> It was announced today that Happy Valley<\/a> star Siobhan Finneran would be joining Coogan in The Reckoning, although there\u2019s no word just yet on who exactly she will be playing.<\/p>\n In addition to Sally Wainwright\u2019s acclaimed police thriller, Finneran is known for past roles in Downton Abbey<\/a>, The Syndicate, The Stranger and prison drama Time<\/a>.<\/p>\n The Reckoning cast will also include BAFTA winner Gemma Jones (Gentleman Jack<\/a>), Mark Lewis Jones (Outlander<\/a>) and Mark Stanley (White House Farm<\/a>), who are also in as-yet-undisclosed roles.<\/p>\n The series was initially slated for release last year, but has been shuffled around the schedule multiple times during a meticulous post-production process. It is now expected to air in the autumn.<\/p>\n The BBC also released its first official image of Coogan in character as Savile, seen from behind smoking a cigar (see top of page).<\/p>