Key Highlights
- Dennis Kelly, Levi David Addai, and Ric Renton adapt Andy West’s memoir into a drama for BBC One.
- The series follows a philosopher who teaches in prison, exploring themes of freedom and the impact of incarceration on families.
- Josh Finan stars as Dan, a character who grapples with his own past while teaching philosophy to prisoners.
- The cast includes Gerard Kearns as Dan’s father, Lee, and Stephen Wight as Dan’s brother Frank.
A Philosopher Behind Bars: The Adaptation of “The Life Inside”
In an exclusive interview with BBC One, Dennis Kelly, Levi David Addai, and Ric Renton discuss their adaptation of Andy West’s memoir The Life Inside. This drama, titled Waiting for the Out, premiered on January 3, 2026, blending philosophical discussions with the harsh realities of prison life.
Navigating the Creative Process
Dennis Kelly, who also serves as the executive producer, explains how his background influenced his involvement. “I was looking for something that dealt with working-class men and their stories,” he shares. “The story of Andy West, a philosopher who teaches in prison, resonated because it challenges societal expectations about class and success.”
Levi David Addai, another writer involved in the project, adds, “Andy’s book is unique for its honest approach. It doesn’t judge but presents raw truths. This authenticity was crucial as we crafted the narrative.”
Blending Realism with Drama
The adaptation faces a delicate balance between staying true to Andy West’s memoir and creating compelling drama. Dennis Kelly elaborates, “We merged several characters from the book into one and set it in one male prison rather than multiple settings. This allowed us to focus on the personal journey of our protagonist while maintaining fidelity to the source material.”
Despite the challenges, the writers aimed for a grounded portrayal. “The story is about waiting—waiting for hope, waiting for freedom, and waiting for change,” Ric Renton explains. “It’s not just about violence or crime but about human emotions and the complexities of life behind bars.”
The Cast and Characters
Josh Finan stars as Dan, a philosopher who teaches in prison to understand his own background better. Gerard Kearns portrays Dan’s father, Lee, adding depth to the character’s struggles. “The role required understanding both the intellectual aspect of teaching philosophy and the emotional journey,” Finan notes.
A Message of Hope Amidst Despair
The drama aims to offer a nuanced view of prison life, emphasizing personal growth over dramatic conflicts. Dennis Kelly concludes, “We wanted to create something that feels real, where characters have genuine stories and experiences. The humor and character development are essential in keeping the audience engaged without resorting to sensationalism.”
Waiting for the Out is available on BBC One and iPlayer. It invites viewers to reflect on issues of freedom, family, and redemption, making it a thought-provoking addition to television drama.
