ITV is launching its new five-part drama The Party tonight, starring Luke Evans as journalist Michael Gilmour. The series airs at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
The story is based upon the 2017 novel of the same name by Elizabeth Day. Evans, who also serves as executive producer, is known for roles in the Fast and Furious franchise, Murder Mystery (2019) and Beauty and the Beast (2017).
What is The Party about?
The series centres on Martin Gilmour, a journalist shaped by his lifelong friendship with wealthy politician Ben Fitzmaurice, played by Tom Cullen.
ITV teased the storyline: "Raised alone by his working-class mum, Sylvia, played by Joanna Scanlan, Martin wins a scholarship to an elite boarding school, where he first meets Ben."
"They forge an unbreakable bond, as Ben and the Fitzmaurices give Martin the sense of belonging he has always craved. In turn, Martin remains unflinchingly loyal to Ben through even the greatest crises."
"Three decades on, Martin is invited to Ben's lavish birthday party at the Fitzmaurices' country pile. The news of the Conservative leader's resignation threatens to derail Ben's party, as he considers announcing his intention to stand. Martin fears the publicity that Ben's bid would bring, dredging up the secrets of their past with tragic consequences…"
Episode one details
The drama moves between the shocking events of the party and the police investigation that follows, with flashbacks to Martin and Ben's lives at school, university and London party days. The story is described as a "gripping exploration of identity, privilege and devotion".
Luke Evans said: "From the moment I read Elizabeth Day's novel, I knew it had the makings of something truly special for television."
Episode one's synopsis reads: "Journalist Martin Gilmour arrives for the lavish birthday party of his lifelong friend, charismatic politician Ben Fitzmaurice. The event is thrown into turmoil with the news that the Conservative leader has resigned, and Ben's arch-enemy Jarvis Conrad intends to stand for election."
How to watch The Party
The first episode airs tonight, Sunday (October 11), at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX. Episode two airs on Monday (October 12) at the same time, followed by episode three on Tuesday (October 13). The series then continues next Sunday (October 18).
