Channel 4 has unveiled a first look at its upcoming psychological thriller Hunting Alice Bell, a six-part drama set to premiere later this year. The series stars Amanda Abbington, known for her role in Sherlock and her appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, alongside Alex Roach as the lead character Fran Da Silva.
Plot: A Woman Accused of Hiding Her Identity
The drama follows Fran Da Silva, whose life unravels after online accusations surface claiming she is concealing her true identity as Alice Bell. Alice previously worked as a nurse and was the accomplice and romantic partner of an infamous anaesthetist serial killer. Now living in Britain under an assumed name, Fran faces mounting online allegations that she is, in fact, Alice.
The official synopsis states: "Fran Da Silva is accused of being Alice Bell, her happy family life implodes in a wave of mob hate. Then she discovers she's not the only woman to suffer this fate." Fran and the other accused women band together to fight back and clear their names. But as they battle to prove their innocence, the question remains: what if one of the group is lying — and is the real Alice Bell?
Cast and Creative Team
The series was conceived by David Baddiel alongside Peter Bradshaw. The ensemble cast includes Alex Roach as Fran Da Silva, Amanda Abbington as Julie, Emily Barber (known for Mobland) as Vanessa, Ralf Little (Death in Paradise) as Graham Hunte, Simon Pegg as Dr Jason Nash, Toni O'Rourke as Ros, Christina Bennington as Charlotte, and Rudi Dharmalingam as Nick.
Themes and Trailer Insights
Hunting Alice Bell explores how rumours proliferate and the catastrophic impact they inflict, while examining misogyny, justice, and the psychosis of the mob. The first-look trailer shows a group of women arranged in a circle, each declaring in turn, "I am not Alice Bell." Yet this raises the question: could one of them be lying to conceal their true identity?
One photograph depicts Fran clutching a box of possessions while brandishing a passport with a frightened expression, apparently attempting to verify her identity. Another scene features the women seated before cameras, all appearing distinctly unimpressed with the situation that has brought them together.
Premiere Date
Hunting Alice Bell will premiere on Channel 4 this autumn. The exact date has not yet been announced.
