The BBC has confirmed that its crime thriller The Cage, starring Sheridan Smith, will not be returning for a second series. The five-part drama, which aired in April, followed casino workers Leanne (Smith) and Matty (Michael Socha) as they embezzled profits.
A BBC spokesperson stated, "We loved bringing Leanne and Matty’s story to BBC viewers and send our heartfelt thanks to Tony Schumacher, Element Pictures and all the cast and crew who worked on this powerful and poignant series." The Independent understands that the cancellation is unrelated to budget cuts.
While The Cage's story has concluded, the BBC will collaborate with Element Pictures on two upcoming dramas: You Are Here, starring Claire Foy and Matthew Macfadyen, and the second series of Nightsleeper.
Sheridan Smith is next scheduled to appear in the ITV mystery thriller Two Birds, and Michael Socha will star in the forthcoming Channel 4 drama Deadpoint.