ITV's acclaimed true crime documentary series, True Crime Presents, has returned for its second season, delving into some of Britain's most disturbing real-life criminal cases. The anthology program's latest episode, titled "Murder on a Knife's Edge," premiered on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 9pm on ITV, focusing intently on the tragic story of Wayne Coventry and his girlfriend Cordelia Farrell.
The Fatal Night in Bromsgrove
Father-of-three Wayne Coventry, aged in his thirties, reconnected with his childhood sweetheart, Cordelia Farrell, after nearly two decades apart. Their rekindled romance quickly descended into what has been widely described by authorities and family as a profoundly toxic relationship. According to court testimonies and family statements, Coventry became deeply infatuated with Farrell, with his mother later expressing concerns about the dynamic between the pair.
The couple's relationship was reportedly marred by frequent arguments, often exacerbated by substance abuse. In the lead-up to the fatal incident, Coventry allegedly confessed to infidelity, a claim that Judge James Burbidge later suggested was likely fabricated to incite jealousy. This volatile situation culminated on a night in October 2019 at Coventry's brother's residence in Bromsgrove.
A Deadly Escalation
Following a heated altercation at the Bromsgrove home, Cordelia Farrell, in what was described in court as an act of retaliation, stabbed Wayne Coventry in the chest. The attack proved immediately fatal, with Coventry succumbing to his injuries at the scene. Farrell initially fled the location but subsequently presented herself at a Birmingham police station, where she surrendered to authorities.
In 2020, at Worcester Crown Court, Cordelia Farrell was convicted of manslaughter. The court handed down a sentence of ten years imprisonment. Additionally, Farrell was found guilty of actual bodily harm, receiving an 18-month sentence to be served concurrently with her manslaughter term.
Family Tributes and Lasting Impact
A spokesperson for the Coventry family issued a heartfelt statement following the conviction, remembering Wayne as a devoted family man. "Wayne was a loving son, a father who doted on his three children, a loving brother and a loyal friend and will always be with us in our hearts and daily lives," the statement read. The family also expressed a hope that such violent crimes would decrease, sparing other families the profound grief they have endured.
The case highlights the devastating consequences of domestic violence and toxic relationships, themes that ITV's True Crime Presents seeks to explore in depth. The series provides a platform for examining the complex psychological and social factors that can lead to such tragic outcomes.
True Crime Presents continues to garner significant viewership by meticulously investigating real criminal cases, offering viewers a detailed look at the investigations, legal proceedings, and human stories behind the headlines. The episode featuring Wayne Coventry's case serves as a somber reminder of the real-world impact of violent crime on families and communities.
