Gemma Arterton, Rafe Spall Set for ITV Spy Thriller ‘Secret Service,’ Adapted From Tom Bradby Novel

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Gemma Arterton will lead the cast of ITV’s new espionage drama, Secret Service.

Based on a novel by ITV News anchor Tom Bradby, “Secret Service” is a five-part drama that will feature Rafe Spall (“The English,” “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom”) and Mark Stanley (“Adolescence,” “Happy Valley”) in addition to its cast. The series has been produced by Potboiler Productions.

The series focuses on Kate Henderson, a seasoned MI6 agent portrayed by Arterton. At first glance, her life seems simple – a government employee married to Stuart (Spall) and mother of two teenagers. However, for those unacquainted with her, Kate is actually the leader of the Russia Desk at the Secret Intelligence Service.

In her undercover investigations, Kate discovers potentially damaging information suggesting a top U.K. politician could be a Russian spy. This revelation sets off a frantic quest for her to unmask the individual. The summary of the story goes, “As a grisly murder casts her team into prominence, Kate grapples with the treacherous realm of espionage while striving to keep her family united and preserve her own standing.

Additionally, Alex Kingston from “Doctor Who”, Roger Allam known for “Endeavour”, Amaka Okafor who appeared in “Bodies”, and Khalid Abdalla best recognized by “The Day of the Jackal” will also be part of the series.

Arteton expressed his joy about joining an intriguing and captivating espionage thriller’s universe. Working with Tom Bradby, Jemma Kennedy, James Marsh, and Potboiler’s exceptional production team is a thrilling prospect for him. He’s eager to breathe life into this tale alongside the brilliant cast.

The five-part series signifies a creative reunion between Bradby and the Academy Award-winning director James Marsh, who is famous for the Oscar-winning documentary “Man on Wire.” According to Marsh, “We’ve gathered a talented group of actors to bring these gripping, intriguing scripts to life. These scripts seem to have eerie parallels with current political events.” He adds, “It’s an enticing and hard-to-resist opportunity for a filmmaker.

Screenwriter Jemma Kennedy, known for “The Buccaneers”, has joined the production team, with filming scheduled to take place on-site in Malta and London this coming spring season.

In addition to the main cast, there are several other actors such as Avi Nash, Aoife Hinds, Rochenda Sandall, Alma Prelec, Galaxie Clear, Harley Barton, Michael Tcherepashenets, Petar Zekavica, Miglen Mirtchev, Juris Žagars and Lana Vlady.

Or, for a shorter version:

The cast also features Avi Nash, Aoife Hinds, Rochenda Sandall, Alma Prelec, Galaxie Clear, Harley Barton, Michael Tcherepashenets, Petar Zekavica, Miglen Mirtchev, Juris Žagars and Lana Vlady.

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to share that this captivating series is being brought to life by the esteemed independent producers, Potboiler Productions. Notably, Gail Egan and Andrea Calderwood will serve as executive producers for the project. Marsh will direct the opening three episodes, with Farren Blackburn (known for his work on “Gangs of London”) stepping in to direct episodes four and five. The talented duo of Bradby and Kennedy are collaborating to pen all five episodes. Lastly, the production will be supervised by drama commissioners Helen Ziegler and Huw Kennair Jones, who represent the broadcaster’s keen interest in this production.

3M International acts as a joint commissioner and handles the worldwide distribution of the series titled “Secret Service.” This production was commissioned by the drama director Polly Hill and is set to debut on ITV1, STV, ITVX, and the STV Player in the year 2026.

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2025-03-26 14:54