The premiere of ITV's new drama Betrayal on Sunday night has sparked widespread acclaim, with viewers quickly dubbing it the 'best of the lot' in the coveted 9pm slot. Within minutes of airing, social media was abuzz with praise, with one fan exclaiming, 'that's how you start a show!'
A Compelling Blend of Espionage and Personal Turmoil
Starring Shaun Evans as British MI5 agent John Hughes, Betrayal delves into the high-stakes world of national security while navigating the collapse of his marriage. Set against the backdrop of Manchester, Hughes is assigned to dismantle a new threat to the country. His mission takes a dark turn when an informant, who could help foil a criminal gang, is murdered, forcing Hughes into a deadly confrontation.
Viewers and Critics Alike Applaud the Series
Audiences took to Twitter/X to express their enthusiasm, with one noting, 'That 9pm Sunday ITV slot has been a goldmine for a while now. Betrayal is probably the best of the lot though. I'd advise folk to watch it.' Others highlighted the show's binge-worthy nature and Evans' standout performance, commenting on the action-packed opening and his 'phenomenal' acting with 'all the little nuances.'
On IMDb, Betrayal has garnered a rating of 6.7 out of 10, with one reviewer awarding it 7 out of 10 and describing it as a 'well-paced and nicely twisty show.' They praised the writers for crafting the story across four compact episodes, enhancing the narrative's intensity.
Insights from the Star and Critical Acclaim
Shaun Evans shared his perspective on the plot, explaining, 'It's about someone having a midlife crisis. Things are no longer working for John and he's trying to find a way forward. His relationship is falling down around his ears, and he no longer has the respect at work for his maverick qualities.' He added that setting this personal struggle against international espionage creates a 'very interesting dual story.'
The Daily Mail's Christopher Stevens awarded the drama four out of five stars, commending Evans' performance. He wrote, 'Shaun Evans is compellingly watch-able without being remotely starry. He handles everything from set-piece violence to childcare with the same hangdog reluctance.'
What's Next for Betrayal?
Betrayal continues to air on Sundays at 9pm on ITV and is available for streaming on ITVX. With its gripping premiere setting a high bar, the series promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats as John Hughes battles for his life, career, and country amidst a web of conspiracy.
