Channel 4's new serial killer drama Hunting Alice Bell has drawn praise from viewers after its first episode aired on November 11. The show continues on Thursday, November 12, at 9pm.
The thriller follows five women accused of being Alice Bell, a nurse who helped infamous killer Dr. Nash, played by Simon Pegg, with his crimes after falling in love with him. The story begins when wife and mother Fran, played by Alexandra Roach, is accused of being Alice hiding under a new identity.
What is Hunting Alice Bell about?
Fran cannot understand how she became a target of the conspiracy but soon learns there are other women being accused of the same thing. The psychological thriller explores themes of "misogyny, justice, the psychosis of the mob, and about how rumours spread and the devastating effects they cause."
A synopsis teases: "When Fran is accused of being Alice Bell, a serial killer's lover and Britain's most hated woman now hiding under a new identity, her family's happy life implodes in a wave of mob hate. But then Fran discovers that she's not alone. There are others."
How to watch Hunting Alice Bell
The show consists of six episodes, all available to stream on Channel 4's on-demand service, All 4. Those wishing to watch the second episode live can tune into Channel 4 tonight at 9pm, before streaming the rest of the series online.
Fran and the other accused women band together to fight back against the mobs and internet trolls. As they battle to prove their innocence, a proclamation from the serial killer himself, Dr. Jason Nash, casts doubt over the women, raising the question of whether one of the group is lying and is the real Alice Bell.
Viewer reactions to the first episode
Viewers have shared mixed reviews for the new series, although most have been completely won over. Sharing their verdict on X, formerly Twitter, one fan said: "I'm on episode 4 binge watching! It's fabulous! Kudos up writers and actors!"
Someone else said: "#HuntingAliceBell Really enjoyed that," while a third added: "Just watched the 1st episode, totally gripping #HuntingAliceBell."
Yet another impressed viewer seemingly stayed up later than they expected watching the show, posting: "#HuntingAliceBell I need an early night but this is really good #Channel4." Others were struck by the harrowing storyline, with one sharing: "This is terrifying #huntingalicebell," and another person saying: "It must be truly horrific to have this happen to you #HuntingAliceBell."
Hunting Alice Bell continues on Channel 4 tonight at 9pm, with the full boxset available to stream now on Channel 4 online.
