ITV's latest crime drama, Betrayal, has made a stunning debut, with viewers enthusiastically praising the series as potentially the best offering in the channel's coveted Sunday evening slot. The four-part spy thriller, which premiered on February 8, 2026, has quickly garnered a loyal following, with social media buzzing with positive reactions.
A Compelling Premise Set in Manchester
The series is set against the backdrop of Manchester and follows MI5 officer John Hughes, portrayed by the acclaimed actor Shaun Evans, known for his role in Endeavour. Hughes is a dedicated professional whose personal life is unraveling as his marriage crumbles, forcing him to channel all his energy into his demanding career.
Action-Packed Opening and Intriguing Conspiracy
The drama kicks off with a high-stakes encounter, as Hughes meets an informant who holds crucial information to dismantle a major crime syndicate. However, the meeting turns deadly when the informant is assassinated, compelling Hughes to eliminate the killer in self-defense. This explosive beginning sets the stage for a deeper conspiracy, leaving Hughes to question whether he has been betrayed and to uncover the extent of the corruption within the system.
Viewers were immediately drawn into the narrative, with many taking to social media to express their admiration. One fan declared on X, formerly Twitter, "That 9pm Sunday ITV slot has been a goldmine for a while now. Betrayal is probably the best of the lot though. I'd advise folk to watch it." Another added, "The timing of this series could not be more apt. Don’t miss #Betrayal starting tonight on @ITV."
Audience Reactions and Binge-Worthy Appeal
The positive feedback continued to pour in, with a third viewer noting, "That's how you start a show #Betrayal," while a fourth commented, "Right so there's action in the first 5 mins of this it's going to be good I can tell I'll probably binge the lot tonight! #betrayal." These reactions highlight the series' ability to engage audiences from the outset, blending suspense with character-driven storytelling.
Shaun Evans on the Dual Narrative
In discussing his role, Shaun Evans provided insight into the complex character of John Hughes. He described the series as exploring a midlife crisis, stating, "It's about someone having a midlife crisis. Things are no longer working for John and he's trying to find a way forward. His relationship is falling down around his ears, and he no longer has the respect at work for his maverick qualities. His body is beginning to fail and his currency in the world is changing. If you set that against the world of international espionage, it becomes a very interesting dual story."
Availability and Future Prospects
All four episodes of Betrayal are currently available for streaming on ITVX, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the entire series at their convenience. This accessibility has contributed to the show's rapid popularity, with many opting to binge-watch the thrilling episodes in one sitting.
The success of Betrayal underscores ITV's strength in producing gripping crime dramas that resonate with audiences. As the series continues to attract attention, it solidifies its place as a standout addition to the network's programming, promising more suspense and intrigue in the episodes to come.
