ITV commissions Michael Robotham's nail-biting thriller 'The Suspect' from World Productions

We are incredibly excited to announce that ITV have commissioned a five-part series adaptation of Michael Robotham's bestselling thriller, The Suspect starring Aidan Turner (Leonardo, Poldark, The Way of the Wind) as clinical psychologist Joe O'Loughlin, from globally renowned, World Productions.

The series will be produced by the Line of Duty, Vigil and The Pembrokeshire Murders producers, with filming overseen by executive producer and World Productions’ Head of Drama Jake Lushington (Vigil, Born To Kill, The Bletchley Circle).

Aidan will be joined in the cast by this year’s RTS Best Actor winner and Bafta nominee Shaun Parkes (Small Axe, Lost in Space), Sian Clifford (Quiz, Fleabag), Camilla Beeput (Save Me (Too), Peep Show), Adam James (Vigil, Doctor Foster) and Anjli Mohindra (Vigil, Bodyguard). Written for the screen by Peter Berry (Gangs of London, The Last Enemy, Prime Suspect 6), The Suspect was Michael's debut novel and the first in his critically acclaimed and bestselling Joe O'Loughlin series.

Michael said: “I’m thrilled that The Suspect is being adapted by World Productions which has such an amazing track record of creating quality TV drama. And Aidan Turner is an inspired choice to play the lead character of Joe O’Loughlin. I could not be in safer hands.”

The series introduces Doctor Joe O’Loughlin, played by Aidan Turner, who appears to have the perfect life – a devoted wife, a loving daughter, successful practice as a clinical psychologist, media profile and a publishing deal. He’s even a hero online after rescuing a young patient who was ready to jump from the tenth floor of the hospital where Joe works.

When a young woman is found in a shallow grave in a West London cemetery, veteran police officer DI Vincent Ruiz and his young partner DS Riya Devi are assigned to the investigation. But has the young woman been murdered or is this a case of suicide? Joe’s opinion is much sought after and when he meets DS Devi he’s only too willing to offer help with profiling and his expertise.

Now known for his risk-taking and rule-breaking does Joe have more to hide? His recent diagnosis with a debilitating illness could explain his behaviour. But as the investigation into Catherine’s death gathers pace, we start to ask, do we know the real Joe, or does he have a secret life? And has his work as a clinical psychologist allowed him to develop a criminal mindset? Or worse?

The Suspect will be filmed on location in London this autumn. The drama will be produced by Natasha Romaniuk (Angela Black, The Split) and the first three episodes are directed by James Strong (Vigil, Liar, Broadchurch). Episodes 4-5 will be directed by Camilla Strøm Henriksen (Phoenix, Occupied S3, The Truth Will Out S2). The drama is executive produced by Jake Lushington, James Strong and Peter Berry.

Commenting on behalf of World Productions Jake Lushington said: “When I first read Michael’s brilliant unputdownable book I felt there was the huge potential for a must-watch television series and the creation of an iconic character. With Peter Berry adapting and James Strong directing the creative team couldn’t be stronger. Finally with the immensely talented and magnetic Aidan Turner agreeing to take the part, supported by the brilliant Shaun Parkes and such a strong ensemble, World couldn’t be more excited about bringing The Suspect to an ITV audience.”

The Suspect will be distributed internationally by ITV Studios.