Downton Abbey star Joanne Froggatt has been cast in HBO's upcoming true-crime series The Trial of Louise Woodward, which tells the "shocking" story of how an 18-year-old au pair was accused of murdering an eight-month-old baby left in her care.
Created by Matthew Barry (The Guest), the limited series stars Catriona Chandler (Rivals) in the title role, while Meghann Fahy (The White Lotus) and Sagar Radia (The Good Karma Hospital) have been cast as Deborah and Sunil Eappen, the parents of the victim, Matthew Eappen.
© Getty ImagesAccording to Deadline, the series explores how the 1997 murder set off an "international media firestorm" as the trial unfolded in full view of both the British and American public.
Creator Matthew told the publication: "The trial of Louise Woodward raised profound questions about childcare, working mothers, class and the role of an emerging 24/7 media. Thirty years later, those questions feel more urgent and relevant than ever. I'm grateful to be working with Susanne and our partners at HBO to bring this story, in all its complexity, to the screen."
© Dave Benett/Dave Benett/Getty ImWho is Louise Woodward?
In 1997, shockwaves were sent around the globe when Louise Woodward was convicted of involuntary manslaughter after eight-month-old Matthew Eappen died while in her care.
© Photo: Getty ImagesShe had been employed by doctors Deborah and Sunil Eappen at their home in Newton, Massachusetts, to care for their sons Matthew and Brendan.
When Matthew was admitted to hospital with a subdural haematoma, retinal bleeding and a skull fracture, prosecutors would later argue that Matthew had been violently shaken.
© WireImageAfter a three-week trial, Louise was convicted of second-degree murder and handed a mandatory life sentence. However, after 11 days, her conviction was reduced to involuntary manslaughter and a sentence of 279 days.
Where is Louise Woodward now?
After returning to the UK following her conviction, Louise studied law at London South Bank University and graduated in 2002.
She began a training contract with a law firm in Greater Manchester but later dropped out to pursue a career as a ballroom and Latin dance teacher in Chester.
