ITV has commissioned “gripping, nail-biting thriller”, The Suspect, starring Aidan Turner, from World Productions.
The five-part drama will be produced by the Line of Duty, Vigil and The Pembrokeshire Murders producers, with filming overseen by executive producer and World Productions’ Head of Drama Jake Lushington (Vigil, Born To Kill, The Bletchley Circle).
The series introduces Doctor Joe O’Loughlin, played by Aidan Turner, who appears to have the perfect life – a devoted wife, a loving daughter, successful practice as a clinical psychologist, media profile and a publishing deal. He’s even a hero online after rescuing a young patient who was ready to jump from the tenth floor of the hospital where Joe works.
When a young woman is found in a shallow grave in a West London cemetery, veteran police officer DI Vincent Ruiz and his young partner DS Riya Devi are assigned to the investigation. But has the young woman been murdered or is this a case of suicide?
As a successful author, Doctor Joe’s opinion is much sought after and when he meets DS Devi he’s only too willing to offer help with profiling and his expertise.
Now known for his risk-taking and rule-breaking does Joe have more to hide? His recent diagnosis with a debilitating illness could explain his behaviour. But as the investigation into Catherine’s death gathers pace, we start to ask, do we know the real Joe, or does he have a secret life? And has his work as a clinical psychologist allowed him to develop a criminal mindset? Or worse?
The cast also includes RTS Best Actor winner and Bafta nominee Shaun Parkes (Small Axe, Lost in Space), Sian Clifford (Quiz, Fleabag), Camilla Beeput (Save Me (Too), Peep Show), Adam James (Vigil, Doctor Foster) and Anjli Mohindra (Vigil, Bodyguard).
Written for the screen by Peter Berry (Gangs of London, The Last Enemy, Prime Suspect 6), The Suspect was the debut novel of Michael Robotham.
The Suspect will be filmed on location in London during the autumn of 2021. The drama will be produced by Natasha Romaniuk (Angela Black, The Split) and the first three episodes are directed by James Strong (Vigil, Liar, Broadchurch). Episodes 4-5 will be directed by Camilla Strøm Henriksen (Phoenix, Occupied S3, The Truth Will Out S2). The drama is executive produced by Jake Lushington, James Strong and Peter Berry.
The Suspect has been commissioned for ITV by Head of Drama Polly Hill and Drama Commissioner Huw Kennair-Jones.
The Suspect will be distributed internationally by ITV Studios.
Jon Creamer
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