ITV Winter Cast: Richard Armitage Leads New Crime Drama
ITV Winter Cast: Richard Armitage Leads New Crime Drama

ITV's new autumn crime drama Winter launches this evening, Wednesday, September 30, at 9pm on ITV1. The Bristol-set series centres on an unconventional forensic pathologist, Dr Ethan Winter, portrayed by Richard Armitage, whose exceptional abilities, keen mind and willingness to bend the rules assist police in cracking some of the most intricate murder investigations.

Dr Ethan Winter's expertise perfectly complements DI Lauren Bell, portrayed by Annabel Scholey, a thorough, direct detective who matches Winter's determination when investigating cases. Every episode presents its own gripping, standalone crime narrative, while a personal storyline for Winter weaves throughout the series.

Richard Armitage as Dr Ethan Winter

Working in Bristol, Dr Ethan Winter stands amongst the nation's foremost forensic pathologists – exceptionally bright, impeccably dressed, and profoundly mysterious. Outwardly he appears the quintessential sophisticated professional: amusing, personable, smartly attired. Yet beneath this refined façade exists a man still troubled by unresolved demons from his past.

Richard is best known for his portrayal of dwarf king Thorin Oakenshield in Peter Jackson's The Hobbit film trilogy. He's also recognised for portraying John Thornton in North and South, Lucas North in Spooks and Guy Gibson in Robin Hood. Richard has become familiar to audiences through his appearances in Harlan Coben adaptations for Netflix, including The Stranger, Stay Close, and Fool Me Once. The actor has additionally featured in Missing You and Red Eye on ITV.

Annabel Scholey as DI Lauren Bell

Recently transferred from the Met to Bristol, DI Bell is a highly regarded senior detective whose composed leadership and keen instincts have established her formidable standing. Astute, thorough and uncompromising, she approaches every investigation with precision and resolve.

Annabel is most recognised for The Split, in which she portrays Nina Defoe. She's also recognised for her role as Lauren Drake in Being Human and Anne-Marie in the award-winning true-crime BBC drama, The Sixth Commandment. Most recently, Annabel appeared as Beattie Johnson in the successful Disney+ drama Rivals. Other notable roles include appearances in Britannia and Medici.

Jamie Kenna and the rest of the cast

Jamie Kenna plays DS Ellis Daldry, a seasoned detective with decades of experience who has never pursued promotion. Policing isn't simply a profession – it's his vocation. Profoundly devoted to every investigation, he immerses himself in his work with steadfast commitment, frequently at the cost of any existence beyond it.

Jamie is a former footballer turned actor known for House of the Dragon and Brassic. Most recently, he appeared as Gerry Madsen in ITV's The Blame. The actor is also recognised for his role as Phil Whittaker in Coronation Street and Big Marc in the cult film Green Street Hooligans.

Alongside Richard Armitage and Annabel Scholey in the Bristol-based drama are Carlotta Banat (Heads of State, 3 Body Problem), Josh Barrow (Hostage, Vera, Dear England), Adwoa Akoto (The Sandman, Surface), Jay Taylor (Manhunt, Ten Percent, Broken Bird), Rishi Rian (Ridley, Damaged), Deirdre Mullins (Bad Sisters, The Couple Next Door), Ellis Elijah (Mammoth) and Evie Coles (The Lady Grace Mysteries).