ITV viewers have expressed frustration over what they describe as 'glaring' plot holes in the second episode of the spy thriller Betrayal, just minutes into the broadcast. The four-part series, starring Shaun Evans as MI5 agent John Hughes, debuted earlier this month to positive reviews, but the latest instalment has drawn criticism for its implausible scenes.
Set in Manchester, the show follows Hughes as he balances a failing marriage with national security threats after an informant is murdered before sharing crucial intelligence. However, fans on X (formerly Twitter) highlighted several blunders, including a character failing to hide a message on a lock screen and a shootout at an airport in broad daylight. One viewer questioned: 'After the two deaths at the start of #Betrayal episode 1, how come no-one ran out after the first shot, and started filming with mobile?'
Another fan noted geographical inconsistencies, asking: 'How quickly did John jog from Stockport to Levenshulme AND not lose signal on those two blokes?' Despite the backlash, many viewers praised Shaun Evans' performance, with one calling it 'simply phenomenal'. The series currently holds a 6.7 rating on IMDb, with one reviewer describing it as a 'well-paced and nicely twisty show'.
Produced by ITV, Betrayal also stars Romola Garai and Zahra Ahmadi. While some fans have vowed to continue watching, others argue the errors are 'too obvious to overlook' for a series centred on MI5 tradecraft.
