British television has long been a showcase for powerful storytelling and remarkable performances, but every so often, a series comes along that truly sets a new standard. For many fans and critics alike, "Accused"—the anthology drama that first aired in 2010—stands out as one of the finest examples of the genre, not least because it brought together two of the UK's most celebrated actors: Sheridan Smith and Stephen Graham. Their collaboration in "Accused" is often cited as a highlight in their already illustrious careers, and the show itself continues to spark conversation more than a decade and a half after its debut.
So what is it about "Accused" that has left such a lasting mark? The series, created by acclaimed writer Jimmy McGovern, consists of 10 standalone episodes spread across two seasons, each running for about an hour. According to ITV's official description, the series is "an anthology of crime stories wherein different types of criminal activities performed by various culprits are showcased and how the victims are given justice." In other words, each episode centers on a unique crime, focusing on both the accused and the victims as they await the verdict in court. This structure allows viewers to dip in and out of the series without needing to follow a continuous storyline—perfect for those who prefer not to binge-watch an entire season in one sitting.
The cast of "Accused" is nothing short of stellar. Alongside Smith and Graham, the series features a who's who of British and Irish acting talent. Olivia Colman, Peter Capaldi, and John Bishop are just a few of the big names who appear, and each brings their own distinctive style to the anthology's diverse stories. Other notable performances come from Christopher Eccleston (as Willy Houlihan), Andy Serkis (as Liam Black), Naomie Harris (as Alison Wade), and Mackenzie Crook (as Lance Corporal Alan Buckley). The list goes on: Marc Warren, Juliet Stevenson, Sean Bean, Anne-Marie Duff, Anna Maxwell Martin, and Robert Sheehan all make memorable appearances, adding depth and nuance to the series' exploration of justice, morality, and human frailty.
For those eager to watch "Accused," all 10 episodes are currently available to stream on ITVX. The anthology format means you can pick any episode that piques your curiosity, and with each installment running for about an hour, it's easy to fit into a busy schedule. There's no need to follow a particular order or worry about missing crucial plot points—each story stands firmly on its own.
The reception to "Accused" was, at the time, somewhat mixed, though it was always respected for its ambition and quality. The Guardian, for instance, praised the show as "a compelling dissection of the fragility of ordinary lives," highlighting its ability to explore the emotional and psychological toll of crime on both perpetrators and victims. However, the review also noted that "you did long for just a little light and shade. People do crack jokes and the occasional smile during hard times – sometime never more so than when they are staring over the edge of the abyss – but rarely in a McGovern drama. It's wall-to-wall misery, and Fate-with-a-capital-F pressing in from every side." This comment captures one of the series' defining characteristics: its unflinching willingness to confront the darker aspects of human nature and the justice system, often without the relief of humor or levity.
Metro, another major UK publication, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging that "despite good reviews, a touch of controversy and International Emmy awards, Accused's first six episodes didn't notch up great ratings in 2010. A shame, as there is some tremendous acting on display and McGovern's piercing, deliberately discomforting approach to character-based drama is always highly watchable." Indeed, while the series may not have been a ratings juggernaut upon its release, it has since gained a reputation for its bold storytelling choices and the sheer quality of its performances.
One of the show's greatest strengths is its ability to attract such a diverse and talented cast. Sheridan Smith and Stephen Graham, in particular, have been singled out for their work on "Accused." Both actors have built impressive resumes across British television and film, but their performances in this series are frequently described as some of their best. Their ability to inhabit complex, morally ambiguous characters adds a layer of authenticity that elevates each episode.
But it's not just the acting that makes "Accused" stand out. The writing, under Jimmy McGovern's direction, is sharp, incisive, and unafraid to tackle difficult subjects. Each episode peels back the layers of its characters' lives, revealing the circumstances that led them to the courtroom. The stories are not just about guilt or innocence; they're about the pressures of everyday life, the consequences of split-second decisions, and the way fate can intervene in the most unexpected ways. As The Guardian observed, the series is a "compelling dissection of the fragility of ordinary lives," and it's this focus on the human element that resonates long after the credits roll.
The show also benefits from its anthology format, which allows for a wide range of stories and perspectives. One episode might focus on a soldier struggling with trauma, while another examines the fallout from a family dispute gone tragically wrong. This variety keeps the series fresh and engaging, ensuring that no two episodes feel the same. It also provides a platform for different actors to shine, with each installment offering a new showcase for the cast's considerable talents.
Despite its serious tone and sometimes bleak outlook, "Accused" has garnered a loyal following over the years. Viewers appreciate its willingness to grapple with uncomfortable truths and its refusal to offer easy answers. The series doesn't shy away from the complexities of justice or the moral gray areas that so often define real-life cases. Instead, it invites audiences to consider the full weight of the choices made by its characters, both good and bad.
For anyone interested in British drama, "Accused" is essential viewing. Its combination of top-tier acting, thoughtful writing, and unflinching subject matter makes it a standout in the crowded field of crime television. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sheridan Smith and Stephen Graham or simply looking for a gripping series to watch, "Accused" offers a powerful exploration of crime, consequence, and the human condition—one hour at a time.
With its impressive cast, layered storytelling, and enduring relevance, "Accused" remains a testament to the power of British television to challenge, provoke, and entertain. Even years after its original broadcast, the series continues to invite new viewers to reflect on the nature of justice and the fragility of ordinary lives.