Nick Cave's book, The Death of Bunny Munro, to become six-part series starring Dr Who's Matt Smith

“The Death of Bunny Munro,” the celebrated second novel by acclaimed musician Nick Cave, is being adapted into a six-part series for Sky, it was announced overnight. The series, authored by BAFTA winner Pete Jackson (known for "Somewhere Boy") and directed by Isabella Eklöf (credited for "Industry" and "Holiday"), will see Cave also serve as an executive producer, with former “Doctor Who” actor Matt Smith taking on the titular role.

In line with the book, the series follows Bunny Munro (Smith), a self-proclaimed lothario and door-to-door beauty product salesman with a proclivity for sex addiction after the death of his wife Libby. Munro finds himself burdened with the responsibility of raising a young son, all while grappling with a vague understanding of parenting. Alongside his nine-year-old son, Bunny Junior, he embarks on a tumultuous road trip across southern England, attempting to cope with grief in markedly distinct ways.

As Bunny Munro traverses from one sales pitch to another in an attempt to seduce any woman he encounters, Bunny Junior copes by conversing with the ghost of his mother, diverting his attention from the emerging realization that his father is not just fallible but a mess. Observing Bunny's descent into chaos, he recognizes the need to rescue his son from outdated notions of masculinity. "The Death of Bunny Munro" emerges as a darkly comic and unyielding modern-day parable, offering a tender portrayal of the intricate father-son relationship.

After the announcement regarding the adaptation was made, Nick Cave said: “Finally, someone with the courage to take on this unholy tale. I am thrilled that Sky and Clerkenwell Films are bringing Bunny to life, in all his flawed glory, and I can think of nobody better than Matt Smith to play him."

When will “The Death of Bunny Munro” be released?

The series will begin filming in spring 2024 across the south of England and will be available on Sky Atlantic and streaming service NOW in the UK