Rough Diamond is a television series co-produced by BBC Northern Ireland and RTÉ. The series also appears on RTÉ One in the Republic of Ireland
The story explores the relationship between discredited racehorse trainer Aidan Doherty and Jonah Price, the son he never knew existed. The first episode begins with Doherty about to sell his run down stables to his neighbour and former employer Charlie Carrick, wealthy owner of the neighbouring Firebrand stables, and move to New South Wales. However, his best laid plans change when a young man appears, later revealed to be his son, Price.
The series is directed by Simon Massey and Dermot Boyd and produced by Peter Norris.
Production Rough Diamond was a six-part drama series co-produced by BBC Northern Ireland and RTÉ, airing on BBC One and RTÉ One in 2007. The series was produced by Peter Norris, with executive producers Tony Garnett for World Productions and Stephen Wright for BBC Northern Ireland. The writing team included Robert Jones (episodes 1, 2, and 6), Sergio Casci (episode 3), and Ted Gannon (episodes 4 and 5). Direction was split between Simon Massey (episodes 1, 2, 5, and 6) and Dermot Boyd (episodes 3 and 4). Filming took place entirely in County Kildare, Ireland, with equestrian experts hired to train actors for realistic horse-racing scenes.
Cast CharacterPlayed byNotesAidan DohertyConor MullenImpoverished racehorse trainer.Charlie CarrickStanley TownsendRich racehorse owner and Aidan's neighbour.Yolanda CarrickLorraine PilkingtonGlamorous wife of Charlie.Jonah PriceBen DaviesEnglish-raised son of Aidan.JPJon LolisPolish stable boy working for Mr Carrick.Sheridan CarrickMuireann BirdDaughter of Charlie. Exhasperated at Jonah.Dermot CahillEamon MorrisseyAidan's friend and assistant.Ray HoganGarrett LombardShady horse dealer.Brett HooperPeter GaynorAidan's replacement as the Carricks' trainer.
Reception Despite initial expectations, Rough Diamond was not recommissioned for a second series by the BBC. While the show garnered successful ratings in both Ireland and the UK, it did not meet the BBC's anticipated reception. A BBC source stated, "It wasn't quite the hit it was expected to be. As a result, the drama department has decided not to go ahead with a second series."
References
External links
BBC Press Office, Rough Diamond Press Pack. Retrieved 5 February 2007. Rough Diamond at Internet Movie Database. Retrieved 5 February 2007.