5 has announced new commissions of ‘The Trial’ for Elliot Reed’s Good TV.
The new series follow the first series which included James Bulger: The Trial, The Soham Murder Trial, and The Trial of Harold Shipman.
The new feature length (1 x 90’) docs feature testimony from only those who were in the courtroom during each dramatic trial. Prosecution and Defence barristers share their stories and the arguments they presented in court, while court reporters, witnesses, the court artist and others recall their experiences and observations. Using the court transcripts, important moments in the courtroom are brought to life using dramatic reconstruction.
The new series due to air later in the year will include two famous Royal trials, The Trial of Diana’s Royal Butler and The Trial of Fergie’s Dresser, both commissioned by Daniel Louw, 5’s Director of Creative Strategy.
Louw has also commissioned Reed’s Good TV to make a two-hour special called Prince Andrew: On Trial examining what would happen if the most controversial royal in modern times, Prince Andrew, was put on trial. Real barristers will put to a real jury the question, is Andrew a liability to the Royal Family, or not?
Elliot Reed, Executive Producer of Good TV commented: “It’s the first time since the 17th century that a royal is on trial in England. The defendant Prince Andrew may not be charged with an offence, but two of the most eminent barristers in the UK battle it out in a courtroom for real, for and against the Queen’s second son. It’s a bold, unique experiment, a seamless blend of the real and the unreal”
The Royal special airs at 9pm on Tuesday 2 September 2025 on 5.
Jon Creamer
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