The BBC's new crime drama I, Jack Wright has stunned audiences by killing off legendary actor Trevor Eve's character within the first few minutes of the premiere. The series, created by Chris Lang, known for Unforgotten and Innocent, debuted on BBC One on Sunday, July 12, with a double bill.
Star-Studded Cast and Sudden Death
The drama features an ensemble cast including Nikki-Amuka Bird, John Simm, Daniel Rigby, Ruby Ashbourne-Serkis, Zoë Tapper, Percelle Ascott, Harry Lloyd, and Liz Kingsman. Eve plays high-powered businessman Jack Wright, who apparently dies by suicide early in the first episode, setting off a mystery involving his multiple wives and children fighting over his estate.
Viewers took to social media to express surprise. One quipped: "Eddie Shoestring didn't last long in this," referencing Eve's 1980s detective series Shoestring. Another wrote: "Looked at the cast for #IJackWright and thought ooh, nice! Then one of my favourite actors character was dead in the first 5 minutes! Hopefully there'll be some flashback scenes."
Plot and Reception
The synopsis describes the series as "a propulsive whodunnit with family secrets at its core." The death of Jack Wright sends shockwaves through his family, as a dogged police detective investigates and uncovers the truth about the wealthy clan. Despite the early demise, audiences embraced the mystery, with one viewer comparing it to Cluedo and another calling it "binge time."
I, Jack Wright was originally commissioned by U&Alibi and first aired in April 2025 before being acquired by the BBC. The BBC will repeat the first series and has secured the second series, currently in production. The first season consists of six episodes.
Broadcast Schedule
The first two episodes aired on July 12. Episodes three and four will follow on Monday, July 13, with the final two episodes scheduled for Sunday, July 19. The drama was filmed in London (Holborn and Lincoln's Inn Fields), Paris, and Hertfordshire, with the Wright family home Marston House shot at Mansion House North Mymms Park.
I, Jack Wright airs on BBC One and is available on BBC iPlayer.
