The critically acclaimed television drama The Affair has officially arrived on the ITVX streaming platform, offering UK viewers comprehensive access to all five seasons of the provocative series. Originally airing on Showtime from 2014 to 2019, the show has been acquired by ITV and will be released in stages, beginning with the first three seasons this week.
Streaming Schedule and Episode Details
ITV has confirmed that seasons 1 to 3 of The Affair will be accessible on ITVX starting Friday, March 13, 2026. The subsequent seasons will follow a staggered release, with season 4 scheduled for summer 2026 and the final season 5 arriving in 2027. In total, the series comprises 53 episodes, providing an extensive narrative arc that explores complex themes of love, memory, and betrayal.
Cast and Character Perspectives
The ensemble cast is led by Ruth Wilson as Alison Bailey and Dominic West as Noah Solloway, whose illicit relationship forms the core of the initial season. Both actors bring notable prior roles, with West known for The Wire and The Crown, and Wilson recognised for His Dark Materials and Luther.
As the series progresses, it incorporates the viewpoints of their spouses, portrayed by Maura Tierney as Helen Solloway and Joshua Jackson as Cole Lockhart. Supporting roles include Julia Goldani Telles, Jadon Sand, and Catalina Sandino Moreno, enriching the show's intricate character dynamics.
Filming Locations and Production Background
The Affair utilised authentic settings to enhance its storytelling realism. Seasons 1 to 3 were primarily filmed in Montauk, New York, featuring landmarks such as The Lobster Roll and Montauk Lighthouse Museum. Additional shooting occurred on Long Island and in New York City.
In a geographical shift, season 4 relocated production to Los Angeles, with scenes also captured in Morro Bay and San Francisco. This change in backdrop mirrors the evolving narrative and character journeys throughout the series.
Critical Reception and Awards
Created by Sarah Treem and Hagai Levi, The Affair has garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative multi-perspective storytelling and psychological depth. The drama holds an impressive 85% score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 7.9/10 rating on IMDb, with many viewers praising it as one of television's finest offerings.
Its accolades include a Golden Globe for Best Television Series - Drama, underscoring its impact and quality. ITV emphasises that bringing the series to ITVX allows UK audiences to experience its full scope, from romantic entanglements to darker revelations that challenge perceptions of truth and trust.
With its compelling cast, distinctive filming locations, and award-winning narrative, The Affair represents a significant addition to ITVX's streaming catalogue, promising to engage both new viewers and existing fans with its nuanced exploration of human relationships.
