ASHLEY WALTERS has said he is ‘thrilled to be making’ his ‘directorial debut with Boys’ a Sky Original short film written by newcomer Jerome Holder set to air in January.

Commissioned by Paul Gilbert, Executive Producer, Sky Studios, and Phil Edgar-Jones, Director of Sky Arts and Entertainment. Boys is set against the grey but beautiful backdrop of East London’s skyscrapers and estates and features two best friends, Noah and Lewis, who embark on a journey into manhood, set in motion by a promise that must be fulfilled.

Noah’s big brother, Nick (played by UK rapper Devlin), is serving a lengthy sentence at her majesty’s pleasure, and bestows upon his teenage brother a list of items he needs in jail.

In an act of blind loyalty, Noah and Lewis set out to fulfil Nick’s wishes, but along the way are faced with challenges and hurdles that will shape them and the men they will become.

Produced by Walters’ SLNda in association with Sky Studios, the actor, musician and now director enthused: “I was immediately drawn to the innocence of this story written by promising new screenwriter Jerome Holder.

“I’m thrilled to be making my directorial debut with Boys which will be the first short film we’re producing at SLNda, and I’m thankful to Sky Studios for believing in our vision.”

It’s not the only work you will see from Walters this January as he is back in the role of Ronnie Pike in Bulletproof South Africa, alongside fellow cop Aaron Bishop (Noel Clarke).

Unfortunately for the two holidaymakers, things don’t quite go to plan.

While trying to relax after a tough year, Bishop, Pike and his family soon find themselves caught up in the frightening kidnap of a young girl.

Having befriended the young girl’s parents earlier that day, Bishop and Pike decide it’s their duty to use their expertise to help the couple win their daughter back.

The kidnappers demand an unreasonable reward for the safe return of the girl, but have no idea who they’re now up against.

Five takeaways from Ashley Walters and Ronan Bennett’s Top Boy Academy talk