London – FremantleMedia International’s new drama Wentworth has been acquired by the UK network Channel 5 for broadcast later this year.

A reimagining of the classic Australian drama Prisoner Cell Block H (previously known as Prisoner in Australia), Wentworth (10 x 60’) takes viewers to the Wentworth Correctional Centre where they are introduced to the lead characters of Bea Smith and Franky Doyle. Set in the violent, dangerous environment of a modern prison, with struggles with inmates and insights on their fractious personal lives, Wentworth is set to be a graphic, edgy reboot.

A FremantleMedia Australia production, Wentworth is due to premier on Foxtel’s SoHo channel in May this year and has been pre-sold to TVNZ in New Zealand prior to its international launch.

Justin Hatfield, SVP Sales UK, Eire & Scandinavia at FremantleMedia International, said, “I’m thrilled to bring this gripping series to UK audiences on Channel 5, a channel that has such a strong reputation for diverse drama content.”