Best Interests tells the story of two parents who must make a life-changing decision that no one could ever want to make.

Andrew and Nicci’s daughter, Marnie, suffers from a life-threatening condition to the extent that medical staff have suggested that it would be in her best interests to be allowed to die to end any suffering.

Andrew and Nicci struggle to contemplate the decision and launch a legal battle to prevent their daughter’s death.

The series will explore the question of who should be able to make such a decision and whose interests it would serve.

The four-part drama was commissioned by Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama and Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content and marks the first production for new company Chapter One Pictures.

“As a parent of a three year old I've looked at the cases in the media about 'best interests' with some fascination and a little dread,” Thorne commented.

“When the worst happens, how do you keep your head when everything around you feels wrong? We are going to try and tell a nuanced story that talks about this issue from all sides.”

“This heart-breaking story delves deep into the inner turmoil these two parents experience when faced with their worst nightmare,” added Piers Wenger, Controller of BBC Drama.

“Jack Thorne’s talent for tackling the most complex and challenging real life stories with consideration, wisdom and vision will make this a series to remember.”

Filming for the Best Interests will begin in 2020 with casting to be announced at a later date.

Thorne’s other credits include National Treasure, Kiri, This Is England ’86, ’89, ’90 and the upcoming HBO/BBC One adaptation of Phillip Pullman’s His Dark Materials which starts later this year.