The latest crime drama from Jed Mercurio's production stable, Payback, has captivated critics and viewers alike with its high-calibre cast and gripping narrative. The series, created by writer Debbie O'Malley, follows the story of Lexie Noble, an accountant whose husband Jared is stabbed in an apparently motiveless attack, drawing her into a dangerous web of fraud and gangland crime.
The plot centres around a missing £28 million, with Lexie caught between police surveillance and the menacing Cal Morris, played by Peter Mullan. As she navigates the fallout, she must decide whom to trust while protecting her family. The drama moves at a swift pace, offering a refreshing break from more emotionally heavy crime thrillers, focusing instead on a high-stakes financial puzzle.
The cast has been widely praised, with Morven Christie delivering a believable performance as an ordinary woman thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Peter Mullan exudes casual menace as the crime lord, while Steven Mackintosh and Derek Riddell provide strong support. Julie Graham also appears as Cal's wife, Connie, and has been noted for her potential to shine in future episodes.
While the series has been lauded for its quality acting and plot momentum, it has not been without minor criticism. Some have pointed out a convenient plot device involving a hoodie with account details, but overall, the drama has been described as a solid, entertaining watch that showcases understated talent. Payback is currently airing and has quickly become a talking point among crime drama enthusiasts.
