In a thrilling announcement that has sent shockwaves through both soap and fantasy fandoms, Coronation Street favorite Jill Halfpenny is stepping into

an entirely new realm of drama as she joins forces with Game of Thrones legend Alfie Allen for a gripping psychological series set to premiere on Paramount+ UK and Ireland.

The upcoming show, tentatively titled “Baby Doll: The Slash T”, is based on the acclaimed 2017 novel Baby Doll by Holly Overton, and it promises

to deliver heart-pounding suspense, raw emotional storytelling, and unforgettable performances.

This intense drama series will explore the devastating ripple effects of trauma through the lens of twin sisters caught in the aftermath of a horrifying abduction. With a cast stacked with seasoned stars and rising talent, and a story that delves deep into psychological survival and sisterhood, Baby Doll is poised to become one of Paramount+’s most talked-about dramas of the year.

The Plot: A Sister’s Nightmare, A Town’s Secret

Set in a seemingly peaceful English village, Baby Doll tells the story of identical twin sisters Lily and Abby, whose lives are shattered when Lily is kidnapped by the town’s trusted schoolteacher, Rick Hansen—played by none other than Alfie Allen, best known for his harrowing portrayal of Theon Greyjoy on Game of Thrones.

What follows is a harrowing tale of years spent in captivity and psychological torment. But Lily’s escape isn’t the end of her nightmare—it’s just the beginning. Returning to the life she once knew proves impossible. The town has changed. Her family has changed. And most painfully, her bond with Abby has changed in ways no one could have predicted.

The series doesn’t just examine the horrors of abduction—it turns a spotlight on what comes after: the struggle to reclaim identity, the grief over lost time, and the redefined relationships left in trauma’s wake.

A Star-Studded Cast Brings Dark Drama to Life

Joining Alfie Allen in this emotionally charged drama is Coronation Street and EastEnders alum Jill Halfpenny, who takes on the pivotal role of Eve, the twin girls’ mother. Known for her gripping performances and emotional depth, Halfpenny is set to deliver one of her most powerful roles to date. Eve is a mother devastated by guilt, haunted by questions, and torn between joy at her daughter’s return and grief over the years lost forever.

Adding a layer of fresh, young talent to the series are twin actresses Talula and Deli Evans, who take on the roles of Lily and Abby. Their portrayals are expected to be raw, vulnerable, and deeply impactful as they navigate the conflicting emotions of reunion, resentment, and redefinition.

Alfie Allen: The Reluctant Villain

Alfie Allen’s casting as Rick Hansen has already drawn significant buzz. Known for his complex portrayal of flawed characters, Allen seems destined for roles that challenge audiences to question their perceptions. As Hansen—the seemingly beloved local teacher who harbors monstrous secrets—Allen is poised to once again master the art of playing a deeply disturbing character that you can’t take your eyes off.

Fans have already weighed in online. “Alfie doesn’t catch a break—always the villain,” one commented with a mix of awe and anticipation. Another added, “He plays creepy too well. Can’t wait to see this performance.”

A Thrilling Production Backed by Creative Powerhouses

Behind the scenes, Baby Doll boasts an impressive creative team dedicated to bringing Holly Overton’s haunting novel to life with precision and emotion. Executive producer Victoria Echenoi shared her enthusiasm on Instagram, writing, “Epic team on this. Can’t wait for you all to see it.” Her words echo the buzz already building among viewers.

Paramount+ UK’s Deputy Chief Content Officer, Sebastian Cardwell, further teased the intensity of the series, stating,

“Baby Doll: The Slash T is the kind of thrilling, emotionally rich storytelling we’re proud to champion. With a brilliant creative team and a gripping narrative at its heart, this series is set to be a standout addition to our original drama slate.”

Fan Anticipation Is Already Explosive

The announcement of Baby Doll immediately ignited excitement online. One fan wrote, “This looks SO epic. Chills already!” while another simply posted, “Shut up and take my subscription.” Across social media platforms, fans of both Coronation Street and Game of Thrones are uniting in anticipation of this dark and complex thriller.

The show’s deep emotional core, suspense-driven pacing, and morally layered characters promise a binge-worthy experience. With psychological twists, family drama, and gut-wrenching performances, Baby Doll is set to take its place among the top dramas of the year.

More Than Just a Crime Thriller

What makes Baby Doll truly unique is its focus on life after trauma. It’s not merely about Lily’s kidnapping—it’s about what happens when the monster is gone, and the world expects you to “move on.” The show delves into the emotional disconnect between Abby and Lily, who despite being identical twins, now feel like strangers. Their relationship becomes a haunting symbol of time lost and identities forever altered.

Jill Halfpenny’s Eve adds another layer to this complex web—a mother who watched her family fall apart and now finds herself trying to hold the pieces together without a clear picture of what that even looks like.

Why This Series Matters

In a TV landscape full of police procedurals and crime dramas, Baby Doll stands out for its emotional depth and character-driven storytelling. It refuses to sugarcoat trauma and doesn’t offer easy resolutions. Instead, it gives viewers an honest portrayal of survival—not just from a captor, but from the life that comes after.

By blending powerful performances, emotionally driven plots, and high-stakes suspense, Baby Doll will challenge audiences and linger long after the credits roll.

Release Details & What’s Next

While an official release date is yet to be announced, Baby Doll: The Slash T is currently in production and will stream exclusively on Paramount+ UK and Ireland. With the series already generating massive fan anticipation, it’s safe to say this is one thriller you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a Coronation Street diehard, a Game of Thrones fanatic, or simply someone who loves gripping television, Baby Doll promises to deliver a dark, thrilling ride into the heart of human resilience—and the horrifying depths of betrayal.