The eight-part series, set in 1814, follows James Delaney (Hardy) as he returns home to London from Africa to inherit his father’s shipping empire. However, the darker motives for his return begin to unravel as old and new enemies emerge, family secrets are discovered and a quest for vengeance is revealed.

The drama series will take the slot of Saturday night post-watershed, an unconventional spot for a drama series on the channel as it has traditionally been pre-watershed family friendly series such as Doctor Who or Merlin in early evening slots.

The move is part of plans to shake up the Saturday night schedule, with further changes to scheduling and format outside of the drama genre being made to the channel.

Charlotte Moore, director of content at BBC One, told Broadcast, “We’re going to play with formats, create new slots across the week and on Saturdays, and we’re already piloting some exciting shows.”

“I want to create a more dynamic BBC that’s responsive and in touch with our audience - that isn’t scared of reinventing for the future,” she said.  

Taboo will be air on the 7th January 2017 on BBC One.