10:36AM, Oct 28, 2009
A shocking new TV drama will show disgraced 70s glam rock star Gary Glitter being hanged for child sex crimes.
The film, The Execution of Gary Glitter, aims to spark a new debate on the death penalty.
Set in an imaginary Britain in which the death penalty has been re-introduced, the documentary-style drama will see Glitter (real name Paul Gadd) tried for his real-life crimes under new capital punishment laws.
Actor Hilton McRae plays the 69 year old singer, whose fictitious trial will be shown as public outcry and fierce parliamentary debate grips the country. The film ends with a noose being placed around his neck.
A recent survey conducted by Channel 4 revealed that 70 per cent of Britons are in support of the death penalty for certain crimes.
Head of Documentaries and More4, Hamish Mykura said: “High profile crimes against children often prompt calls for the return of the death penalty – this drama confronts the public with what many say they want.
“Putting a resonant figure like Gary Glitter into a fictional situation helps to engage the viewer as the drama unfolds.
“The debate around the death penalty arouses passions on both sides. This drama, with its compelling and original narrative, is an intelligent and thought-provoking examination of the issue.”
The Execution Of Gary Glitter will air on More4 on Monday 9 November.
