ITV viewers tuning into Luke Evans' new drama The Party were left saying the same thing as the second episode aired. The five-part psychological thriller, adapted from Elizabeth Day's novel of the same name, follows journalist Martin Gilmour (Luke Evans), whose life has been shaped by his lifelong friendship with the wealthy and charismatic politician Ben Fitzmaurice, portrayed by Tom Cullen.
Martin's blood-stained shirt raises questions
Three decades later, Martin receives an invitation to Ben's extravagant birthday celebration at the Fitzmaurice family's country estate. Yet the Conservative leader's resignation threatens to overshadow Ben's party as he contemplates declaring his leadership bid. Martin dreads the media attention Ben's candidacy would attract, potentially unearthing secrets from their past with devastating consequences.
The drama alternates between the disturbing events of the party and the subsequent police investigation, interspersed with flashbacks to Martin and Ben's school days, university years and London party scene. The second episode, which aired on Monday (October 12), featured a journalist digging for a story, prompting Martin to caution Ben against any reckless behaviour. Despite this, Ben declared his intention to stand as Conservative Party leader during his birthday address.
Fans point out forensic evidence oversight
While Ben's team descended into chaos, Martin feared this could prove catastrophic. Haunted by the absence of Ben's twin sister, Phoebe, Martin's mind drifted back to their university days. During a boozy evening out, Phoebe urged Martin to reveal his genuine feelings for Ben, but Ben's rash actions meant the night concluded in disaster.
Meanwhile, Lucy discovered from journalist Amina Bates that Martin has been collecting yearly payments from Ben's family for nearly 29 years. While Ben's mother Katherine reflected on Phoebe and Ben's younger days, viewers witnessed how Ben's father George struck an agreement with Martin years ago to shield Ben, the repercussions of which now risk sabotaging the celebration.
As tensions escalate, audiences found themselves sidetracked by the police questioning scenes, with Martin seemingly wearing a blood-stained shirt throughout his station interview. Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan penned: "Is there a reason the police haven't taken the bloody shirt off his back and sent for forensics.. it's all very odd this series so far #TheParty."
Viewer reactions and upcoming episodes
Another added: "#TheParty if the police thought he was any way involved the blood soaked shirt would be in an evidence bag straight away." A third person said: "Of course suspects sit in a police interview in a blood stained shirt! nobody has heard of forensics obviously! #TheParty."
The third episode will air on ITV1 tomorrow night (Tuesday, October 13) but fans will have to wait until Sunday (October 16) for the fourth episode before the series finale airs on Monday (October 17). The Party continues on Tuesday, October 13 on ITV1 and ITVX at 9pm.
