Netflix viewers have been left 'broken' just minutes into a harrowing new true crime drama titled The Witness, which was released on the streaming platform this week. The three-part series is based on the real-life murder of Rachel Jane Nickell, who was fatally stabbed on Wimbledon Common in 1992.
A Devastating Opening
The drama opens with the horrific crime, where Rachel was stabbed 49 times in front of her two-year-old son, Alex. The toddler remained the sole witness, allowing the attacker to evade justice for years. The series is adapted from Alex’s memoir Letting Go and focuses on the aftermath for her son, played by Jahsaiah Williams and Max Fincham, and her partner André, portrayed by Jordan Bolger.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Reactions
The Guardian awarded the series four stars, calling it 'courageous' and 'a valuable insight' into true crime, though warning that 'some details are so appalling that they are difficult to believe'. The Irish Independent noted that it is 'unlike any true crime drama we’ve seen before' and is 'primarily a story of survival in the most appalling circumstances'.
Viewers have taken to social media to express their shock. One wrote on X: '15 mins into #TheWitness on Netflix and I'm already broken.' Another said: 'The witness on Netflix, just started and ts already got me sad.' A third warned: '#TheWitness on Netflix will give you the chills.'
A Sobering UK Drama
Created by Rob Williams (The Victim), the series also features Detective Keith Pedder, played by Neil Maskell, who leads a flawed investigation involving an undercover female officer. The drama has sparked conversation just hours after its release, drawing comparisons to last year’s Adolescence by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham.
For those seeking more details about the case, Netflix also offers a companion documentary, The Murder of Rachel Nickell. The Witness is available to stream now.
