Helen McCrory's Final ITV Drama 'Quiz' Arrives on Netflix
Netflix has significantly expanded its content library for February, introducing a diverse range of new shows and films. Among the notable additions is the acclaimed ITV true crime drama Quiz, which holds particular significance as it features one of the final television roles performed by the late, celebrated actress Helen McCrory.
The 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' Scandal Dramatised
The series, which originally premiered on ITV in 2020, dramatises the infamous 2001 Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? cheating scandal. The plot centres on contestant Charles Ingram, portrayed by Matthew Macfadyen, who won £1 million on the show. Production staff grew suspicious, ultimately uncovering a pattern linking his correct answers to coughs from audience member Tecwen Whittock, who was a waiting contestant.
This discovery led to a major legal case. Charles Ingram and his wife Diana were convicted of procuring the execution of a valuable security by deception. The Ingrams each received an 18-month prison sentence and were ordered to pay a combined total of £115,000 in fines and court costs. Tecwen Whittock was sentenced to 12 months in prison, fined £15,000, and ordered to pay £10,000 in prosecution costs.
A Stellar Cast and a Poignant Final Performance
Quiz boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Michael Sheen takes on the role of iconic host Chris Tarrant, while Sian Clifford plays Diana Ingram and Mark Bonnar portrays the show's executive producer, Paul Smith. The drama is adapted from James Graham's stage play of the same name.
In a poignant and memorable performance, Helen McCrory appears as Sonia Woodley QC, the lawyer representing the Ingrams. This role proved to be one of her final projects before her untimely death in April 2021 at the age of 52. The BAFTA-winning actress had been privately battling breast cancer and passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family.
McCrory's other final works included the BBC fantasy series His Dark Materials, the political thriller Roadkill, and her renowned role as Polly Gray in Peaky Blinders, where the show's creators altered her character's storyline for the sixth series following her death.
Netflix's Broader February Lineup
The addition of Quiz is part of a broader content refresh for Netflix this month. Subscribers can also look forward to the second part of the latest Bridgerton series, a new stand-up special from Mo Gilligan, and other notable titles.
Another significant addition is the true crime documentary The Investigation of Lucy Letby, which promises to delve into the case of the convicted serial killer with previously unseen footage and insider accounts. The documentary's release has sparked controversy, with Letby's parents publicly criticising the use of footage from her arrest at their family home, calling it a profound invasion of privacy.
The arrival of Quiz on Netflix offers audiences a chance to revisit a gripping dramatisation of a major British television scandal and to appreciate one of the last performances from a beloved and immensely talented actress.
