ITV’s upcoming six-part drama Adultery dives headfirst into the messy, high-stakes realities of modern relationships, family betrayal, and personal desire. Written by BAFTA-winning screenwriter Danny Brocklehurst-known for hit series such as Fool Me Once, The Stranger, and Brassic-the series explores how a secret affair between two married adults threatens to destabilize not only their own lives, but also those of their children.
Produced by Poison Pen Studios for ITV and STV, the provocative series is designed to spark uncomfortable conversations about loyalty, temptation, and the consequences of putting personal happiness above familial responsibility.
What Is the Plot of Adultery?
The story centers on Tom Kirkman, played by Dominic Cooper, and Beth Brookes, portrayed by Romola Garai. Tom is a devoted father whose life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with Beth in unusual circumstances. An immediate, intense romantic connection sparks between them, leading them into a passionate affair.
However, the affair carries heavy consequences. As Tom and Beth grapple with intense guilt and undeniable desires, their actions place both of their marriages at risk and create severe complications for their children. Adding dramatic irony to the plot, Tom’s 15-year-old daughter, Jess, is deeply involved in a whirlwind first romance with Ollie-who happens to be Beth’s son. The teenagers are initially entirely unaware that their parents are secretly entangled, creating a tense narrative web where young, innocent love collides with adult betrayal.
According to production details and creator commentary, Adultery aims to examine much more than a typical cheating storyline. The series explores broader cultural themes, including class, grief, modern parenthood, and the complicated ways social media and digital communication tools influence modern secrets.
Meet the Star-Studded Cast
The six-part drama features a high-profile ensemble cast bringing these complex characters to life:
- Dominic Cooper (Mamma Mia!, Preacher) as Tom Kirkman
- Romola Garai (Atonement, The Years) as Beth Brookes
- Shelley Conn (Bridgerton, Gen V) as Hannah Kirkman (Tom’s wife)
- Matthew McNulty (Deadwater Fell, Domina) as Neil Brookes (Beth’s husband)
- Leila Khan (Heartstopper) as Jess Kirkman (Tom’s daughter)
- Johnny Sanpher as Ollie Brookes (Beth’s son and Jess’s boyfriend)
- Andrew Knott (Gavin & Stacey) as Dave
- James Murray (The Crown) as Paul Kirkman (Tom’s brother)
- Charley Webb (Emmerdale, The Long Shadow) as Leah Kirkman
Behind the Scenes and Production Team
Filming for the project took place in and around Manchester. Behind the camera, the series boasts an experienced creative team. Danny Brocklehurst serves as the creator and writer. Will Sinclair directs episodes one through three, and Daniel O’Hara helms episodes four through six. Sarah Lewis acts as series producer, working alongside executive producers to bring Brocklehurst’s scripts to the screen.
When Can You Watch Adultery on ITV?
While ITV has rolled out first-look images and official trailers to build anticipation, a specific broadcast premiere date has yet to be finalized. Industry expectations place the release window for the six-part drama in late 2025 or 2026. Once released, episodes will air on ITV1 and STV, with the complete box set made available to stream on ITVX and STV Player.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adultery on ITV
Who wrote the ITV drama Adultery?
Adultery is written and created by BAFTA-winning screenwriter Danny Brocklehurst, whose previous credits include Fool Me Once, The Stranger, and Brassic.
Who stars in Adultery?
The main cast features Dominic Cooper as Tom Kirkman and Romola Garai as Beth Brookes, alongside Shelley Conn, Matthew McNulty, Leila Khan, and Johnny Sanpher.
What is the plot of the series?
The series follows two married parents, Tom and Beth, who embark on an intense affair after a chance encounter. Their secret romance threatens their marriages and complicates things for their teenage children, who are dating each other.
Where was Adultery filmed?
Production for the six-part drama took place primarily in and around Manchester, England.
How many episodes are in Adultery?
Adultery is a six-part drama series produced by Poison Pen Studios for ITV and STV.
Where can I watch Adultery in the UK?
The series will premiere on ITV1 and STV, and all episodes will be available to stream digitally on ITVX and STV Player.
