The television world is buzzing with anticipation as new and upcoming series gear up for their debuts, promising to captivate audiences across the UK. From gripping dramas to compelling documentaries, there's something for everyone.
One highly anticipated series is the new seven-part drama The Hack, penned by renowned writer Jack Thorne. This series delves deeplyinto the infamous phone hacking scandal involving the News of the World. Initially aired on ITV, filming for The Hack wrapped up last year, and it is currently post-production, yet no precise air date has been announced yet.
Set between 2002 and 2012, The Hack intricately weaves together two real-life narratives: the investigation led by investigative journalist Nick Davies, portrayed by David Tennant, who unraveled evidence of phone hacking, and the probe surrounding the unsolved murder of private investigator Daniel Morgan, played by Robert Carlyle. Thorne expressed his motivation for telling this story at this time, emphasizing its relevance: "This is a strange and deceptive piece of our recent history. One with so many layers to it. I thought, as someone who is interested in politics, I understood everything... It’s a fight for the truth.”
Another exciting series making waves is Brian and Maggie, airing on Channel 4. This two-part series, led by Steve Coogan as broadcaster Brian Walden and Harriet Walter as former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, explores the complicated and often disillusioned relationship between the two during their final interview. The drama is based on Rob Burley's book, Why Is This Lying Bastard Lying to Me?, and is set against the backdrop of the late 1980s political turmoil.
James Graham, the writer of Brian and Maggie, captured the essence of the show's intimate but contentious partnership, remarking, "A strange and complicated relationship between the leader and the journalist meant to hold her to account, but many boundaries were crossed." The interview's consequences shaped public perceptions and was filled with notable moments, such as when Thatcher famously replied, "I don’t know" when asked about her chancellor's resignation.
Also on the horizon is Stacey and Joe, starring Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash. The couple, known for their lively family life, has opened the doors of their home for this new BBC One series. Solomon expressed her excitement and nerves, stating, "It was such a big part of our lives... I love sharing what we do on Instagram, but this is capturing the laughs, tears and the craziness at Pickle Cottage in such a different way." This series aims to portray the reality of balancing family, careers, and hobbies, including building their two-acre fishing lake. Set to premiere in Spring 2025, the series will document their often chaotic family life.
Among these, various other shows are adding to the TV lineup. For example, Watson, launching on Paramount+ on January 27, explores Dr. John Watson’s life after Sherlock Holmes’s death, intertwining his medical career with the remnants of his past. Meanwhile, the Australian comedy Optics debuts on ABC iview on January 29, centering on two women unexpectedly promoted to run their firm amid crises and scandals.
On the comedy front, Mythic Quest Season 4 will debut on Apple TV+ on January 29, promising another round of delightful chaos from the gaming world's biggest multiplayer game. The show's co-creators have set high expectations with their blend of humor and workplace dynamics.
Thrills await with Protection, another upcoming ITV release featuring Siobhan Finneran as Detective Inspector Liz Nyles, tackling corruption within witness protection. This six-part series promises to unravel complex moral choices and the secrets hidden within the system.
Overall, this year's fresh offerings highlight both the engaging storytelling and relevant themes audiences have come to love. Each show, from gripping investigations to lighthearted family life, carries the promise of bringing new narratives and familiar faces to viewers’ screens, creating excitement as they await their premieres.
With so much quality content on the way, it's clear the new year will be packed with engaging drama, laughter, and reflection.