Molly Manning Walker, best known for her award-winning film HOW TO HAVE SEX, is stepping into television with her debut drama series titled MAJOR PLAYERS. The new project has officially been commissioned by Channel 4 and will be produced by the acclaimed studio A24.
The story, co-written by Walker and Yasmin Joseph (writer of A Thousand Blows), centers around two girls navigating life on the edge of adulthood as they work to form a women’s soccer team. Drawing inspiration from Walker’s own teenage years, the series offers a fresh perspective on youth in modern-day London, blending themes of friendship, gender politics, and the power of sport.
Walker, who is also the co-founder of Babe City FC — a London-based football club for women and non-binary people in the film industry — brings a personal passion to the project. The club currently boasts more than 180 members and embodies the spirit of the series.
“It is a coming-of-age story filled with first love, grief, and bicycle kicks set in your local cage,” said Walker. “I’m excited to shine a light on women’s football, which I’m a huge fan and supporter of.”
MAJOR PLAYERS is being described as a “funny and wild” take on growing up in London, and a heartfelt tribute to the game of football. With the creative team behind it and the backing of A24, the show is expected to bring fresh energy to the TV landscape.
Walker’s rise has been rapid and impressive. Her debut film HOW TO HAVE SEX, developed by Film4, received the Un Certain Regard award at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival and also earned two BAFTA nominations. Most recently, she served as the head of the Un Certain Regard jury at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, further cementing her as one of the U.K.’s most exciting new filmmakers.
Ollie Madden, director of Film4 and Channel 4 drama, praised the collaboration, saying: “Molly is one of the most exciting new filmmaking voices to emerge from the U.K. in years. With its mix of wit, heart, and fearless energy, Major Players is exactly the kind of fresh storytelling we champion.”
As the series moves into production, fans of Walker’s work — and lovers of bold, character-driven TV — can look forward to a vibrant and emotional journey grounded in the culture and chaos of London youth.
Visit tvacute.com again soon for more MAJOR PLAYERS updates, previews, and episode breakdowns.
Source: variety.com
