The highly anticipated espionage thriller “Betrayal” has officially entered production, with ITV and Mammoth Screen teaming up to bring this four-part series to life. Set in the world of modern intelligence work, the show delves into the psychological toll that comes with the job. Directed by the BAFTA and Emmy-nominated Julian Jarrold, known for his work on “A Very Royal Scandal” and “This England,” the series is currently being filmed in Manchester and Liverpool.
Leading the cast is Shaun Evans, known for his roles in “Endeavour” and “Vigil,” as MI5 operative John Hughes. His character grapples with the demands of his job while his personal life falls apart. Romola Garai, an Olivier Award winner, portrays Claire, John’s partner who struggles to trust him due to the secretive nature of his work.
The ensemble cast includes Zahra Ahmadi, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Gamba Cole, and Omid Djalili, as well as some fresh faces in television. The series is written by award-winning playwright David Eldridge, who has other adaptations in the works, including John le Carré’s “The Spy Who Came in From the Cold.”
Produced by Irma Inniss, known for “Mr Loverman,” “Betrayal” follows John Hughes as he investigates a British-Iranian informant, leading to deadly consequences and intense scrutiny from his superiors. Executive producers include Mammoth’s Damien Timmer and star Shaun Evans himself. The show is set to premiere on ITV1 and ITVX in 2026, with ITV Studios handling international distribution.
In other news, ITV Studios and Sirasa TV in Sri Lanka have expanded their partnership with new deals for the “Voice” franchise and the first-ever Asian commission of the physical game show “Catchpoint.” Sirasa TV will produce the third and fourth seasons of “The Voice Sri Lanka” and “The Voice Teens,” airing this year. The format has been a huge success since its debut in 2019, consistently bringing in strong ratings.
Additionally, “Sirasa Catchpoint” will make its Asian debut in mid-July 2025, following the format of the popular UK version, which has garnered a large audience. The show combines quiz questions with physical challenges as contestants try to catch falling balls for cash prizes. Augustus Dulgaro, executive VP Asia Pacific at ITV Studios, praised the partnership with Sirasa TV, highlighting the strength and versatility of their formats.
In the realm of reality TV, Disney+ has commissioned a trio of unscripted series from the UK, including a modern take on the classic dating show “Blind Date.” The series will feature contestants choosing from hidden suitors behind a wall with new twists to the format. The slate also includes “The Rooneys,” following Coleen and Wayne Rooney’s family life, and “Jamie and Sophie: Raising Chelsea,” which tracks the journey of “Made in Chelsea” alumni Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo as they prepare for parenthood.
Lastly, the London West End stage musical “50 First Dates” has announced its full cast for the upcoming run at The Other Palace. Georgina Castle stars as Lucy Whitmore, a woman with short-term memory loss, opposite Josh St. Clair as Henry Roth. Directed by multi-Tony winner Casey Nicholaw, the adaptation explores themes of love and second chances in a romantic comedy about a man falling for a woman who forgets him nightly.
Overall, the entertainment industry is buzzing with exciting new projects and partnerships, promising audiences a diverse range of content to look forward to in the coming years.
