Severn Screen scoops TV rights to Bergstrom’s What A Shame

Severn Screen has optioned TV rights to Abigail Bergstrom’s What a Shame, which was published by Hodder & Stoughton in January. Rights were acquired in a three-way auction from Rosie Gurtovoy and Jonathan Sissons at Peter Fraser + Dunlop (PFD).

PFD described What a Shame as a “moving, and darkly comedic novel” that revolves around the character of Mathilda, who after a break-up is forced into ever more extreme methods of attempting to move on. Severn Screen is adapting the novel as a television series and intend for Bergstrom to adapt the book for screen herself.

Bergstrom said: “There is something poetic about developing this book with a Welsh production company and Severn felt like the perfect home for What a Shame. Having the opportunity to continue Mathilda and her friends’ stories feels like a huge privilege and I can’t wait to go back to them with a view to bringing these characters to life on screen."

Hannah Thomas from Severn Screen added: “We’re so thrilled that Abigail has trusted us with developing her story for the screen. Abigail’s voice is fresh and original and we’re excited to begin the journey of helping her adapt her bold and original novel.”