The eight-part true crime series The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox, based on Amanda Knox's memoir, will air on ITV and ITVX in July after its initial release on Disney+ in August 2025. The series examines the high-profile murder case of British exchange student Meredith Kercher, for which Knox and her then-boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito were wrongfully convicted and later exonerated.
Background of the Case
Amanda Knox, a Seattle native, shared an apartment with 21-year-old Meredith Kercher in Perugia, Italy, while studying abroad. In 2007, Kercher was found murdered in their home. Knox and Sollecito were arrested and initially convicted of the murder. Their convictions were overturned on appeal in October 2011, but they were convicted again in a 2014 retrial. Italy's Supreme Court ultimately cleared them in 2015.
Knox authored a memoir titled Waiting to Be Heard, chronicling the events from 2007 to 2022, including her trial, conviction, and eventual exoneration. The memoir inspired the Disney+ drama, which ITV will now broadcast.
Cast and Plot
Grace Van Patten, known for Tell Me Lies, portrays Amanda Knox, while Irish actress Sharon Horgan plays Knox's mother, Edda Mellas. Giuseppe De Domenico takes on the role of Raffaele Sollecito. The series logline states: "The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox follows the eponymous American college student, who arrives in Italy for her study abroad, only to be wrongfully imprisoned for murder weeks later. The series traces Amanda's relentless fight to prove her innocence and reclaim her freedom and examines why authorities and the world stood so firmly in judgment."
Critical Reception
Since its debut on Disney+, the series has received acclaim from audiences. One Rotten Tomatoes critic wrote: "This was the most infuriating series I've ever watched, in the best way possible. Extremely well done." Another added: "An intimate and thoughtful take on a story we think we know. Unique and heartbreaking perspective of every character's point of view. Incredibly raw and emotional." A third reviewer commented: "Excellent and compelling to watch. I watched each episode back-to-back. The acting and casting is very good. The pace was great. Use of Italian subtitles felt authentic."
Controversy and Criticism
Despite the positive reviews, the drama has also sparked criticism. Some viewers on YouTube voiced disapproval, with one commenter stating: "Although Amanda is innocent, I believe that exploiting this tragedy further is wrong. The victim's family has made it clear that they did not want this series to be produced." Another wrote: "Making it about her again for profit. RIP Meredith, go away Knox."
Kercher's sister, Stephanie, told The Guardian that she finds it "difficult to understand" the purpose of the drama. Knox and Monica Lewinsky serve as executive producers on the series.
The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox airs on ITV and ITVX next month.
