Jessica Gunning and Michelle Dockery to Lead Netflix Survival Thriller Feral

Jessica Gunning, who recently earned critical acclaim for her role in Baby Reindeer, has officially signed on for a new leading role at Netflix. Gunning will star in Feral, a survival thriller adapted from Shirley Conran’s 1987 novel Savages.

The seven-episode series represents a significant thematic shift for Gunning. While her breakout performance as Martha Scott centered on psychological obsession, Feral places her in a high-stakes physical environment. Gunning is set to play Annie, described as a quietly dutiful wife and mother of four who has long sacrificed her own ambitions for her family.

The series is based on Shirley Conran's 1987 novel about survival on a remote island.

The plot follows four women whose lives are upended during what was supposed to be a luxury trip to a tropical island. When their husbands’ shady business dealings take a violent turn, the women find themselves stranded and forced to survive the dangers of the jungle.

Gunning joins an ensemble cast that includes Michelle Dockery (Downton Abbey), who will play a character named Julia. The lead quartet is rounded out by Genevieve O’Reilly, known for her role in Andor, and Dolly de Leon, who earned international recognition in Triangle of Sadness. According to reporting from TheWrap, the series was created and written by Jude Mack.

The production is scheduled to begin in Australia later in 2026.

The series is being produced by Hera Pictures and Warner Bros. International Television Production. By securing Gunning for the lead, Netflix continues its professional relationship with the actress following her previous collaboration with the streaming platform.

The adaptation of Conran’s Savages under the title Feral marks the latest prestige drama to enter Netflix’s pipeline, focusing on character-driven survival and the transformation of the four central women as they navigate a life-threatening environment.

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