Five years after Michaela Coel’s game-changing series, I May Destroy You, blew up our screens (and our social feeds), the award-winning writer, actor and director is bringing us another unmissable series. At last! First Day on Earth - which is coming to BBC One soon - is what we’re calling her “comeback” drama, and it’s set to be her most intimate yet.

While I May Destroy You bravely explored the topic of sexual assault and was inspired by Michaela’s own real-life experience, First Day on Earth will explore themes of identity, family, and navigating a new culture through lead character Henri (played by Michaela Coel). Michaela has said it’s "another very personal story", which she hopes "will engage viewers from all over the world".

With production on the series underway, here’s everything you need to know ahead of its arrival on our screens…

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What is First Day on Earth about?

The 10-part series will introduce us to British novelist Henri (Michaela Coel) who’s stuck in a rut - work has dried up and her relationship isn’t going anywhere. So, when she's offered a job on a film in Ghana, West Africa - her parents' homeland, where her estranged father lives - she doesn’t think twice about going. After all, it’s a chance to reconnect with both him and the country of her heritage.

i may destroy you
BBC

But when she arrives in Ghana, neither the job nor her father turn out quite the way she expected. According to the official synopsis. “Henri has to deal with danger and hypocrisy, form new friendships, lose her illusions, and create a new sense of identity - one that might leave her stronger, but could also break her.”

Michaela has said the process of creating First Day on Earth has been “a beautifully intimate experience”, adding: “I am excited to embark on the next phase to eventually offer this as another televisual gift for anyone willing to accompany Henri on what will be a wild odyssey!”

Notably, both of Michaela's parents are Ghanaian, so we're expecting elements of her family history to be brought to the series. In an interview with American Vogue, Michaela explained that she first visited Ghana in 2018 for a TV shoot and felt an instant connection.

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, says: “Michaela is one of those exceptional talents whose work I have long admired. I May Destroy You is one of the reasons I wanted to join the BBC! In First Day on Earth, Michaela has created another unmissable series - truly original, heartfelt, hilarious, poetic storytelling and told in a way that only Michaela can. I can’t wait for everyone to see it.”

Who's starring in First Day on Earth?

person wearing a white sleeveless outfit with a flared bottom
Spencer Hewett

At the moment, Michaela Coel is the only confirmed cast member for First Day on Earth, but we’re expecting further details to be announced soon. As soon as we know more, we’ll share it here.

How can I watch First Day on Earth?

The BBC hasn't yet given a release date for First Day on Earth, but we're expecting it to arrive on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at some point in 2025. Once there's a confirmed date, we'll share an update.

Can I still catch up on I May Destroy You?

i may destroy you
BBC

Yes! In case you need reminding, the 12-part series charted the fallout from a sexual assault that took place after Arabella - played by Michaela - had her drink spiked. If you missed it the first time round, all 12 episodes of I May Destroy You are currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer.