‘A lot of these scary blokes doing time are terrified little boys’: Dennis Kelly on writing a new kind of prison drama

December 19, 2025

TL;DR

Dennis Kelly's writing mantras: write like you mean it, never write for money, never compromise, and always include a secret.
His smash-hit stage adaptation 'Matilda' was secretly about his longing to be a father.
The upcoming BBC prison drama 'Waiting for the Out' (WFTO) has fear as its central secret.
WFTO explores men's fear of speaking out, being vulnerable, and being themselves.
Kelly confronted his alcoholism and fears in his 30s, achieving 25 years of sobriety.
The series is based on Andy West's memoir 'The Life Inside,' about teaching in prison.
Kelly observed deep-seated fear in some prison inmates, viewing them as 'terrified little boys'.
The show's protagonist, Dan, is loosely based on Andy West but becomes fixated on finding his absent father.
Both Kelly and West come from working-class backgrounds, experiencing a disconnect between their origins and current lives.
Kelly visited Grendon, Isis, and Belmarsh prisons for research, aiming for a quieter, more truthful depiction of prison life.
Co-written episodes with Ric Renton, who has served time, added authenticity to the depiction of prison life.
Director Jeanette Nordahl's still directing style aims for a less frenetic, more observant portrayal of characters.
Kelly is open to a second series of WFTO but is wary due to past show cancellations.
His stage play 'The Regression' about anti-technological advancement might be revived.

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