The series explores complex homicides through the unique partnership of a forensic pathologist and a detective
Category: Arts & Culture
ITV premiered its new six-part forensic crime drama Winter on September 30, 2026, at 9 p.m. The show stars Richard Armitage as Dr. Ethan Winter, a brilliant forensic pathologist with a knack for solving murders, and Annabel Scholey as DI Lauren Bell, a diligent detective. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Bristol, the series introduces a fresh take on the classic detective genre.
The drama centers around the investigation of a young woman's murder, which serves as the launching point for the complex relationship between Winter and Bell. Their partnership is characterized by tension and differing methodologies, as Winter's unorthodox and rule-breaking approach often clashes with Bell's more traditional detective work. An explosive postmortem raises the stakes, forcing the two to find common ground in their pursuit of justice.
“Winter follows Dr. Ethan Winter, one of the most gifted pathologists of his generation, whose analytical ability and instinct for reading victims make him an invaluable asset to murder investigations,” according to ITV. The series promises to blend standalone murder cases with an overarching narrative that examines Winter's haunted past, offering viewers both episodic and serialized storytelling.
Adapted from a successful French series that ran for five seasons, Winter aims to bring a unique perspective to the detective genre. Richard Armitage, known for his roles in various crime dramas, expressed his excitement about stepping into the shoes of a forensic pathologist. He noted, "I know that people roll their eyes when they hear 'He doesn't play by the rules', but he really is unusual. He's a scientist, but because of something that's happened to him, he has this espiritual side to his character. That's not something you see often in a scientist."
Armitage's portrayal of Winter is not just about forensic science; it also involves a psychological depth that sets the character apart. He explained, "The way that he talks to the dead and uses their bodies as a map to find out how they died is so interesting. There were so many things about this character that I loved." This unique approach to storytelling is expected to resonate with audiences who appreciate complex characters and narratives.
DI Lauren Bell, played by Annabel Scholey, complements Winter's character with her own strengths. Scholey described her character as "meticulous and driven," emphasizing the dynamic between her and Winter. "I thought the scripts were great," she said, adding that Bell is never off the screen, allowing for a thorough exploration of her character. The chemistry between the two leads was evident during their auditions, which Scholey noted as a key factor in their on-screen partnership.
As the series progresses, viewers can expect each episode to present a self-contained crime, all the whilst unraveling a larger narrative involving Winter's personal demons. The show promises to explore the intricacies of forensic science and detective work, as the characters navigate complex homicides that challenge their skills and moral compasses.
Director Kaat Beels shared insights into the show's creative vision, stating, "I hope they’ll enjoy solving the puzzles together with the police and with Winter, that they’ll love our characters, understand Winter and see Bell’s struggles. I hope they find a connection with them all." This focus on character development and emotional engagement is expected to set Winter apart from typical procedural dramas.
With its unique narrative structure and character-driven storytelling, Winter aims to captivate audiences throughout its six-episode run. The blend of forensic insight and sharp investigative work creates a formidable team in Winter and Bell, who will tackle a variety of murder cases that push them to their limits.
As the series continues to air on ITV1, fans of the genre will have the opportunity to witness the evolution of Winter and Bell's partnership, as well as the resolution of the overarching mystery that haunts Winter. The show is set to become a staple in the crime drama lineup, appealing to both fans of traditional detective stories and those seeking a fresh take on the genre.
Viewers can tune in to Winter every Wednesday at 9 p.m. on ITV1 to follow the duo's gripping investigations and personal journeys.