Radical with Amol Rajan The Night Manager: How To Make Great British Drama (Simon Cornwell)
Feb 1, 2026
Simon Cornwell, executive producer and son of John le Carré, discusses reviving The Night Manager and shepherding his father’s legacy. He talks about updating the story for today, choices of writers and locations, shifts from linear TV to iPlayer and streamers, the shrinking mid‑range drama market, and hints about series three and a Smiley adaptation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Author's Permission To Evolve Work
- John le Carré wanted his work to be a starting point for others and trusted his family to take it forward creatively.
- Simon Cornwell says that trust was an act of generosity that freed them to adapt while keeping the original words intact.
Time Jump For Authenticity
- The team chose to set series two a decade later because the world and the actors had changed and the story needed maturity and relevance.
- Simon Cornwell argues the passage of time added depth and realism rather than awkward continuity.
Pandemic Pitch In A Garden
- David Farr cycled to Simon Cornwell's house during the pandemic and pitched the idea for series two at opposite ends of the garden table.
- That conversation grew into the new Night Manager storyline now on screen.
