Is there any better feeling than getting stuck into a really good drama? The kind that takes over group chat conversations, keeps you glued to the sofa, and makes you say, 'Just one more episode,' despite the fact it is fast approaching midnight. Fortunately, there are plenty of newly released shows sure to do just that. From Sheridan Smith to Steve Coogan, our favourite actors are spoiling us with an array of stellar series that will have us laughing, crying, and hiding behind our hands. Ready for a good old binge? Here are the top new shows to scratch the itch.
The Cage
Does anyone do a drama like Sheridan Smith? Her latest project is The Cage, a gripping show about two employees, Leanne and Matty, who are both stealing money from the Liverpool casino where they work. But their enterprise is not as straightforward as it seems, setting them on a high-stakes crash course with gangsters, police, and eventually each other. With five hour-long episodes, it is the perfect series to binge on a rainy Sunday. Watch on BBC iPlayer.
Half Man
If you loved Baby Reindeer, then Richard Gadd’s new project is definitely one to try. Ruben (Richard Gadd) and Niall (Jamie Bell) were raised as brothers – not related by blood, but pretty much as close as you can get. Thirty years later, they reunite at Niall’s wedding – and when a sudden act of violence erupts, the series delves back into the two men’s shared past and rocky history, to see just how things got so dark. Reviews call it a ‘devastating brutal watch’ and a ‘bloody masterpiece’, so do not go in unprepared. Watch on BBC iPlayer.
Believe Me
In 2009, London Black Cab driver John Worboys was finally jailed for attacks on 12 women, after years of his victims being dismissed and ignored. This new ITV drama shines a light on the women who sought to get him convicted: victims Sarah (Aimée-Ffion Edwards) and Laila (Aasiya Shah) who, despite reporting the brutal assaults they suffered, were failed by the Met Police. Once Worboys (Daniel Mays) was put away, the women waged a years-long legal battle against the Met, fighting against the institution’s degrading treatment towards victims of sexual assault. It is punchy, gritty, and rightly (and refreshingly) spotlights the victims’ strength rather than the perpetrator’s crimes. Watch on ITVX.
Secret Service
Adapted from Tom Bradby’s best-selling 2019 novel, Secret Service is a dive into the murky world of spying and sleuthing. Gemma Arterton plays Kate, a ‘civil servant’ who is secretly the head of the Russia desk at MI6. When an operation leads Kate to believe a senior UK politician might be a secret Russian asset, she is tasked with discovering the politician’s identity while protecting herself and her family – and facing plenty of opposition from all the usual dodgy types. If you are one for pacey spy thrillers, you can binge all five episodes now. Watch on ITVX.
The Testaments
This highly anticipated sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale follows Agnes Mackenzie (Chase Infiniti), dutiful and pious, and Daisy (Lucy Halliday), a new arrival and convert from beyond Gilead’s borders. As they navigate life at Aunt Lydia’s ‘Wife School’ – where they learn to become obedient spouses – Agnes slowly starts to reckon with the dark future awaiting her. Eventually, the two friends become determined to free themselves from their gilded cage – but as always in Gilead, escape is a very bloody option. Watch on Disney+.
Babies
Written by the multi-award-winning Him & Her creator Stefan Golaszewski, Babies details the fertility struggles of 30-something couple Lisa and Stephen. Over six episodes, it dives into the immense emotional, physical, and relational strain of multiple miscarriages, and the difficulties both individuals and society have communicating about loss. The Guardian’s five-star review calls the ‘exquisite’ show an ‘unsettling, funny, moving and emotionally devastating TV triumph’ – and we very much agree. Watch on BBC iPlayer.
Number One Fan
Ever wondered what it is like to be a celebrity with one of those absolutely crazy fans? Channel 5’s new drama explores exactly that, with Jill Halfpenny starring as Lucy Logan, a TV host whose life descends into chaos thanks to her ‘number one fan’ Donna (Sally Lindsay). After Donna saves Lucy from a mugging, she starts to integrate herself into every part of the star’s personal and professional life, and an originally grateful Lucy begins to wonder if Donna is actually fan or foe. It is one of those high-stakes thrillers that has you half watching, half covering your eyes. Watch on Channel 5.
Prisoner
Amber Todd (Izuka Hoyle) is a young prison transport officer escorting Tibor Stone (Tahar Rabin) – a dangerous inmate – to the Old Bailey to testify against a crime syndicate. But when their convoy is ambushed, she takes the split-second decision to handcuff herself to Tibor. The pair are the only survivors, and what follows is a dramatic chase, as they are hunted by the UK’s top criminals and law enforcement. If you like your drama with a true-crime twist, add this one to your watchlist. Watch on Now.
Legends
It is almost unbelievable that this Netflix series is inspired by real-life events. It follows a group of everyday British Customs officers who are given a top-secret mission by the government: to infiltrate and stop Britain’s most dangerous drug gangs. Starring Steve Coogan, Victoria's Tom Hughes, and You's Charlotte Ritchie, fans are already so obsessed that they are begging for a second season. Watch on Netflix.
