ITV has announced the commissioning of a gripping new thriller series titled “Red Eye,” set to premiere exclusively on ITVX in 2024. The high-octane show, spanning six adrenaline-filled episodes, will take viewers on a thrilling journey from a transcontinental flight to the corridors of power in Whitehall.
“Red Eye” boasts an impressive cast, with Jing Lusi, Richard Armitage, and Lesley Sharp taking the lead roles. The series is the television debut of British screenwriter Peter A. Dowling, known for his work on “Black and Blue” and “Flightplan.” The show is directed by Kieron Hawkes and produced by the acclaimed production company Bad Wolf.
Polly Hill, ITV’s Head of Drama, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming series, stating, “Red Eye is a brilliantly addictive thriller with an international story taking place on the red-eye flight from Heathrow to Beijing. Thanks to Peter’s scripts, the story will have the audience gripped and continually surprised throughout. It’s got a fantastic cast led by Jing Lusi and Richard Armitage, and we are delighted to be working with Bad Wolf on this exciting new show.”
Bad Wolf, a Wales-based production company backed by Sony Pictures Television, will be responsible for producing “Red Eye.” Founded in 2015 by Jane Tranter and Julie Gardner, Bad Wolf has established itself as a prominent player in the industry, known for producing acclaimed shows like “Doctor Who” and “I Hate Suzie.” Julie Gardner and Lachlan MacKinnon will serve as Executive Producers for the series, with Kieron Hawkes directing all episodes. The series is produced by Kristian Dench.
Dan McCulloch, Bad Wolf’s Director of Content, expressed his delight in partnering with ITV, stating, “Red Eye is Bad Wolf’s first contemporary action thriller, and we’re so happy for it to have found its home at ITV. We’re delighted to be working with such a talented cast. Peter’s scripts are the very definition of a page-turner and will keep you guessing to the last minute.”
“Red Eye” follows the story of Dr. Matthew Nolan, portrayed by Richard Armitage, who finds himself at the centre of a murder investigation after a car crash in Beijing. Jing Lusi plays DC Hana Li, the determined London officer assigned to accompany Nolan back to China. As suspicions arise during the flight, Hana discovers a dangerous conspiracy, with her sister, reporter Jess Li (Jemma Moore), also entangled in the unfolding events. Lesley Sharp portrays Madeline Delaney, the head of MI5, who risks everything to protect Hana and Nolan and uncover a far-reaching international conspiracy.
Jing Lusi expressed her excitement about the series, remarking, “Red Eye marks a turning point in British Asian representation, and I am beyond thrilled and proud to be leading this series alongside the wonderful Richard Armitage. Bad Wolf is one of the most exciting production companies in the world, making some of the best-loved and most respected shows today, and I’m sure Red Eye will be breaking new ground.”
Richard Armitage echoed Lusi’s sentiments, stating, “I’m excited to be boarding Red Eye alongside Jing Lusi. This action-packed espionage thriller is one of the best scripts I have read in a long time. Thrilled to be reuniting with the brilliant Julie Gardner and the team at Bad Wolf and Sony… what a ride!”
Bad Wolf has established itself as a leading production company, known for creating ambitious and imaginative dramas for the global TV market. With the support of the Welsh Government, Bad Wolf has also launched Wolf Studios Wales, a state-of-the-art production facility in Cardiff, and Screen Alliance Wales, an education and training initiative aimed at fostering talent and building skills in the creative industries.
“Red Eye” promises to be an edge-of-your-seat thriller, combining suspense, action, and a complex web of international intrigue. Viewers can anticipate an enthralling experience when the series takes off on ITVX in 2024.
