Steve Coogan has been spotted on the set of the new BBC drama The Reckoning.

The 55-year old actor was pictured in costume as the paedophile TV personality Jimmy Savile.

The behind-the-scenes snap shows the Alan Partridge actor dressed as a jester in a blonde wig.

The controversial series began filming on Friday (October 8) in Bolton.

 

The mini-series will tell the story of Savile's career and rise to fame as well as his long history of sexual abuse which only became public after his death.

Savile died aged 84, in 2011, and was never brought to justice for his crimes.

He is now believed to be one of the UK’s most prolific sex offenders.

Coogan has previously said that he did not take the decision to play the disgraced presenter lightly.

He said: “To play Jimmy Savile was not a decision I took lightly.

Dorset Echo: Steve Coogan: Deciding to play Jimmy Saville was 'not a decision I took lightly'Steve Coogan: Deciding to play Jimmy Saville was 'not a decision I took lightly'

“Neil McKay has written an intelligent script tackling sensitively an horrific story which - however harrowing - needs to be told."

The new series has received a lot of criticsm since the announcement but the show's Director believes the series provides us with a unique opportunity.

Goldbacher commented: "The Reckoning is a unique opportunity to give Savile's survivors, the people who inspired this project, a voice.

“I feel sure that Steve Coogan’s powerful performance as Savile will create a debate around how the cult of celebrity cloaked him from scrutiny."

The BBC has also said it has worked closely with many people whose lives were affected by Savile’s abuse to ensure their stories are told with sensitivity and respect.

 

When will The Reckoning be on TV?

 

The BBC has not confirmed a screen date for the series yet, but filming has already begun.