ITV's new drama series The Blame, starring Michelle Keegan, has been labelled 'the best drama since Happy Valley' by viewers. The six-part series, which landed on ITVX last month, has been widely binge-watched since its release.
The Blame stars Michelle Keegan as Detective Inspector Emma Crane. Adapted by screenwriter Megan Gallagher, the series centres on a tragic murder investigation in the fictional town of Wakestead. The 39-year-old actress, who welcomed her first child, a daughter named Palma, with husband Mark Wright last year, leads the investigation alongside DI Tom Radley, played by Douglas Booth.
Murder investigation spirals into cover-ups
The pair dig deeper into what starts as a tragic death that sends shockwaves through the town. A murder enquiry soon spirals into a tangled web of lies, institutional cover-ups and moral compromise. ITV teased "complex characters, unexpected twists and a mystery at its core". The broadcaster added: "The drama dives into secrets, suspicion and systemic corruption - all under the surface of this seemingly quiet town."
As the clock ticks and trust fractures, Emma must navigate both a murder investigation and the treacherous politics inside her own team. The cast also includes Ian Hart (Mr Bates vs. The Post Office, The Last Kingdom) as DCI Kenneth Walker and Nathan Mensah as DC Lewis Brimah.
Cast and viewing details
Nigel Boyle (Line of Duty, Peaky Blinders) plays digital forensic technician Neil Shergill, Joe Armstrong (Gentleman Jack, Black Mirror) plays ice-skating coach Kyle Frasier, and Matilda Freeman (How to get to Heaven from Belfast, Passenger) is Sophie Madsen. The series first aired on ITV1 in September 2026 and is set to come to an end tonight (October 5). All six episodes are available to watch on ITVX.
Many fans binge-watched the series when it was first released, while others waited patiently for each episode to air on ITV weekly.
Viewer reactions on social media
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, viewers have shared their appreciation for the drama. One said: "It's brilliant, oh my days." A second said: "Just binge-watched #TheBlame.. What a series!!"
A third wrote: "Finished binge-watching #TheBlame tonight which is one I would thoroughly recommend. One that is thought provoking and really delves into the blatant misogyny that plagues the police force. An institution that we should all feel safe and have faith in. Shocking and upsetting." A fourth said: "Well that was bloody good #TheBlame after watching the second episode last night I had to binge the rest of it. So many twists and turns."
A fifth said: "If you liked Happy Valley, you will love this." A sixth added: "I recently just binge-watched The Blame. It is by FAR the best thing I’ve watched on TV, my wife had sweaty palms at one point." The reviewer added: "Extraordinary television, the boast that it was the best drama since Happy Valley was spot on. Blown away by how good it was, not even sure I reached for my phone once to scroll whilst watching it! Absolute MUST WATCH!"
