A new ITV drama series called The Hack premiered on September 24, 2025, diving into the real life phone hacking scandal that rocked British media and led to the shutdown of the News of the World tabloid. Starring David Tennant as Guardian journalist Nick Davies, the seven part show explores how one reporter uncovered widespread illegal practices at Rupert Murdoch’s News International, sparking police probes and convictions.
What The Hack Covers
The series follows Nick Davies as he investigates tips about voicemail hacking by tabloid reporters in 2008. It shows his efforts to build a case against powerful figures, including ties between media, police, and politicians.
Viewers see Davies pushing against roadblocks like reluctant sources and legal hurdles. The story builds over years, highlighting how the scandal grew to involve celebrities, victims, and even the prime minister’s office.
A secondary plot tracks detective David Cook, played by Robert Carlyle, who links the murder of private investigator Daniel Morgan to media corruption. This adds tension as Cook uncovers police involvement with tabloids.
The drama mixes fact with fiction to show the slow grind of investigative journalism. It ends with the fallout, including the Leveson Inquiry that examined press ethics in the UK.
Star Studded Cast Shines
David Tennant leads as Nick Davies, bringing intensity to the role of a determined journalist chasing truth. His performance captures the frustration of piecing together a massive story.
Toby Jones plays Guardian editor Alan Rusbridger, offering a grounded take on leadership under pressure. Rose Leslie and Eve Myles add depth as fellow reporters facing ethical dilemmas.
Robert Carlyle stands out as detective David Cook, delivering a compelling portrayal of a cop unraveling a web of deceit. The ensemble includes stars like Steve Pemberton and Dougray Scott, who portray various figures in the scandal.
Critics note the acting as a highlight, with Tennant’s earnest style drawing praise despite some finding it overdone. The cast’s chemistry helps drive the narrative forward in quieter moments.
- David Tennant as Nick Davies: The investigative journalist at the center.
- Toby Jones as Alan Rusbridger: The editor guiding the story.
- Robert Carlyle as David Cook: The detective linking crimes.
- Rose Leslie as a key reporter: Adds emotional layers.
Critics Divided on Execution
Reviews for The Hack vary widely since its debut. Some praise it as a gripping look at media corruption, comparing it to hits like Mr Bates vs the Post Office for its real world impact.
Others call the script lackluster, pointing to awkward dialogue and odd elements like dream sequences with a dung beetle. They argue the seven hour format drags, making the investigative process feel tedious.
Positive takes highlight the show’s sprawl and justice served by retelling the story. Negative ones say it fails to capture the drama’s excitement, despite the astonishing true events.
Audience reactions on social media echo this split, with some viewers hooked by the intrigue and others bored by the pace. As of September 25, 2025, ratings average around 7 out of 10 on sites like IMDb.
Real Phone Hacking Scandal Timeline
The series draws from actual events that unfolded over years. Here’s a quick table of key milestones in the phone hacking scandal for context:
| Year | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | First reports of royal staff voicemails hacked | Led to initial arrests |
| 2007 | Reporter Clive Goodman and investigator Glenn Mulcaire convicted | News of the World claims it was isolated |
| 2011 | Guardian exposes widespread hacking, including Milly Dowler’s phone | Triggers public outrage and paper’s closure |
| 2012 | Leveson Inquiry launches | Recommends press reforms |
| 2014 | Multiple convictions, including Andy Coulson | Over 40 people charged overall |
| 2025 | Ongoing lawsuits against publishers like Mirror Group | Victims still seek justice |
This timeline shows how the scandal evolved from small tips to a national crisis. Recent court rulings in 2025 have admitted more illegal acts by newspapers, keeping the topic fresh.
The Hack stays true to many facts but adds dramatic flair for TV. It reminds viewers of ongoing issues like press accountability in the digital age.
Ties to Current Media Issues
The show’s release comes amid fresh debates on media ethics. In 2025, lawsuits against tabloids continue, with figures like Prince Harry winning cases against Mirror Group for unlawful information gathering.
Experts say the drama highlights risks of unchecked power in journalism. It connects to today’s concerns over data privacy and fake news, especially with social media’s role in spreading information.
Viewers interested in true crime or investigative stories find value here. The series also nods to broader corruption, like police media ties exposed in recent inquiries.
Is The Hack Worth Watching?
Despite mixed reviews, The Hack offers insight into a pivotal moment in UK history. If you enjoy slow burn dramas with strong acting, it might hook you, especially fans of David Tennant.
For those seeking fast paced action, the lengthy episodes could disappoint. It runs on ITV and streaming platforms, with all episodes available by late October 2025.
Overall, it educates on a scandal that changed laws and lives. Pair it with documentaries for a fuller picture.
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