A new ITV series called The Hack brings the 2011 phone hacking scandal at News of the World back into the spotlight. Written by Jack Thorne and starring David Tennant and Toby Jones, the show dramatizes the Guardian’s investigation that exposed widespread illegal practices and led to major fallout in media and politics.
What The Hack Covers
The drama focuses on the Guardian’s 2011 probe into phone hacking by journalists at News of the World, a tabloid owned by Rupert Murdoch’s News International. It shows how reporter Nick Davies, played by David Tennant, uncovered that hackers targeted celebrities, politicians, and even victims of crimes like murdered schoolgirl Milly Dowler.
This revelation caused a massive public outcry. The scandal forced the closure of News of the World after 168 years in print. It also sparked the Leveson Inquiry into press ethics, which recommended stricter regulations for UK media.
Recent court rulings have kept the issue alive. In 2023, a High Court judge found extensive phone hacking at Mirror Group Newspapers from 2006 to 2011, awarding damages to claimants including Prince Harry. Settlements continue, with over 1,300 claims resolved without trials.
The Hack aims to highlight journalism’s role in holding power accountable. Thorne, known for works like Adolescence, calls it a celebration of reporters who challenged their own industry.
Star Power and Production Details
David Tennant stars as Nick Davies, the determined journalist who broke the story after years of digging. Toby Jones plays Alan Rusbridger, the Guardian editor who backed the investigation despite risks.
The cast includes Robert Carlyle as a key figure in the scandal, with Eve Myles and Katherine Kelly in supporting roles. Filmed in the UK, the seven part series premieres on ITV1 at 9pm on September 24, 2025.
Producers drew from real events, consulting with those involved. Tennant has a personal link; he was among celebrities whose phones were hacked, leading him to sue and settle with News Group Newspapers in 2013.
The show uses flashbacks and subplots to build tension, though some critics note journalism is hard to dramatize on screen. Early reviews praise its timely message about truth in an era of misinformation.
Here is a quick look at the main cast and their roles:
| Actor | Role | Notable Past Work |
|---|---|---|
| David Tennant | Nick Davies | Doctor Who, Good Omens |
| Toby Jones | Alan Rusbridger | Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy |
| Robert Carlyle | Key Scandal Figure | Trainspotting, The Full Monty |
| Eve Myles | Supporting Role | Torchwood |
| Katherine Kelly | Supporting Role | Coronation Street |
Why the Scandal Still Matters Today
The phone hacking scandal revealed deep ties between media, police, and politics. Investigations showed some officers took bribes from journalists, eroding public trust.
In 2025, with rising concerns over fake news and data privacy, the story feels fresh. Social media posts on platforms like X highlight ongoing lawsuits, including Hugh Grant’s recent settlement with The Sun for an enormous sum over hacking claims.
Experts say the drama could spark renewed calls for press reform. The Leveson Inquiry’s second phase was scrapped in 2018, but advocates argue it’s needed now more than ever amid digital threats.
Public sentiment remains strong. Victims describe lasting emotional harm from privacy breaches. One former News of the World journalist reflected that hacking was seen as part of the job back then, but regrets linger.
Broader Impact on Media and Society
The fallout reshaped UK journalism. Murdoch’s empire faced scrutiny, leading to corporate changes and billions in settlements.
Globally, it influenced privacy laws. The EU’s General Data Protection Regulation in 2018 echoed some concerns raised by the scandal.
Today, with AI and cyber threats, similar issues persist. Cyber attacks on media outlets have increased by 20 percent in the last year, according to cybersecurity reports.
The Hack draws parallels to recent dramas like Mr Bates vs the Post Office, which exposed real injustices and drove policy changes.
Key lessons from the scandal include:
- The need for ethical journalism standards.
- Stronger protections against unlawful surveillance.
- Accountability for media owners and executives.
Viewer Reactions and What to Expect
Early buzz on social media is positive, with fans excited about Tennant’s performance. Some compare it to All the President’s Men for its focus on investigative reporting.
The series runs weekly, with episodes available on ITVX for streaming. It explores not just the hacks but their human cost, from invaded privacy to ruined careers.
Critics note it’s a reminder of how far media ethics have come, yet how much work remains. In a world where truth is under attack, stories like this matter.
Share your thoughts on The Hack or the phone hacking scandal in the comments below. Did it change how you view the press? Let us know and pass this article to friends interested in media history.
