When it was first announced that Kenneth Branagh would be playing Boris Johnson in a drama about the UK’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, Twitter had a lot of thoughts.

In the midst of the UK’s third lockdown, Sky announced that the multi-award-winning actor would play the prime minister in a five-part series (originally called This Sceptred Isle) about the efforts made by scientists, politicians and frontline workers to contain the virus during the first few months of the outbreak, and people were confused why such a recent (and horrible) event was being televised so quickly.

Despite this initial response, however, the show still went ahead and has now launched on Sky Atlantic and streaming service Now. We never thought we’d say the words but Branagh is on our screens as Johnson – and the resemblance is uncanny.

In one of the episodic shots, Branagh is pictured speaking outside what looks like a butcher’s, while in the other he’s shown walking outside with his wife, Carrie (played by Ophelia Lovibond). There’s also a shot of Andrew Buchan as former health secretary Matt Hancock. 

Alongside the images, the broadcaster has also revealed a short but sweet teaser trailer, which should give you a better idea of the uncomfortably realistic vibe the show possesses. 

With the series now released, we’re confident that this show will cause quite a stir, not least because of how close it harks to a very recent reality. Will you be watching?

This England premieres tonight on Sky Atlantic at 9pm, with all six episodes also now available to stream on Sky Atlantic and streaming service Now.

Images: Sky