Actress Annabel Scholey steps into a powerful new role as Detective Inspector Lauren Bell in Winter, a gripping six-part crime drama airing on ITV1 and streaming on ITVX. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Bristol, the series pairs Scholey’s meticulous, rule-abiding detective with Richard Armitage’s brilliant yet unorthodox forensic pathologist, Dr. Ethan Winter. As the duo tackles a series of twisted, theatrical murder cases, Scholey’s deep dive into her character offers television audiences a complex portrait of a modern working mother navigating high-stakes police work.
For Scholey, known for powerhouse performances in The Split, Medici, and Rivals, taking on the role of DI Bell provided a distinct professional challenge. Unlike her previous characters, who often wore their emotions openly on their sleeves, Bell presents a steely, unyielding exterior.
The Appeal of David Allison and Mark Greig’s Scripts
Scholey noted that the quality of the scripts written by David Allison and Mark Greig served as an immediate draw. Having previously worked with the production team on The Couple Next Door, Scholey felt instantly comfortable returning to a collaborative and creative environment.
“I thought the scripts were great, plus I’ve worked with this team before, who are like a family in Belgium,” Scholey explained. “It’s such a collaborative place to work, and I was the most relaxed and creative I’ve ever been. At rehearsals, David was so open with his script, and we were able to discuss our thoughts about our characters. Bell is never off the screen, which was also attractive to me, so you get to fully explore that person.”
Another major selling point was the dynamic between Bell and Dr. Winter. Scholey shared strong on-screen chemistry with Armitage from their very first audition test, noting that his background as a published novelist brought an extra layer of sharp analytical detail to the script’s dialogue and interactions.
Building DI Lauren Bell: Tough Exterior, Hidden Vulnerabilities
DI Lauren Bell enters the series carrying a heavy personal and professional burden. Having recently left the Met Police to escape the looming shadow of her late father, a decorated former police officer, she relocates her husband and two teenage children to Bristol for a fresh start.
However, the transition proves difficult. Her children struggle to settle into the new area, and her marriage shows signs of strain as both husband and wife throw themselves into demanding careers. At work, Bell adopts a no-nonsense, highly driven attitude to establish herself in a traditionally masculine environment.
“Her dad is her hero. He was in the Force and is the reason she became a police officer. Unfortunately, she lost him recently, and she wants to make him proud,” Scholey shared. “She’s great at her job, but even though it’s modern times, she’s still a female doing what’s often considered to be a male job. She can be quite harsh, and expects a lot from her colleagues, but she also gives a lot.”
A Dynamic in Bristol
Directed by Dries Vos and Kaat Beels, Winter distinguishes itself from standard procedural dramas through its theatrical tone, pacing, and unconventional cases. From frozen Jane Does to intricate physical clues, Dr. Winter and DI Bell find themselves locked in a constant push-and-pull relationship.
Initially, the pair clash violently over their opposing methods. While Bell relies strictly on protocol and authority, Winter prefers to bend the rules to extract the truth from forensic evidence. Over time, their professional friction evolves into a mutual respect, forcing both characters to confront painful secrets from their pasts.
Supporting characters, including DS Ellis Daldry, played by Jamie Kenna, help anchor Bell as she attempts to win over her local team. Alongside the central mystery-an ongoing thread concerning Winter’s obsessive crusade to clear a man wrongfully imprisoned for a past murder-the series balances intense psychological tension with sharp, dry wit.
Where to Watch Winter
Winter broadcasts weekly on ITV1 and is available to stream in full on ITVX. With stellar performances from Scholey and Armitage, the series offers a fresh and visually striking entry into the British crime drama landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions About Annabel Scholey and Winter
What role does Annabel Scholey play in Winter?
Annabel Scholey stars as Detective Inspector Lauren Bell, a meticulous, driven, and fiercely independent police officer who transfers to Bristol for a fresh start.
Who stars alongside Annabel Scholey in the ITV drama?
Richard Armitage stars alongside Scholey, playing the brilliant and rule-bending forensic pathologist Dr. Ethan Winter.
Where was Winter filmed?
Although set in Bristol, much of the series was filmed on location in Antwerp, Belgium, utilizing European crews and directors to give the show a distinctive theatrical visual style.
What makes DI Lauren Bell different from Scholey’s past television roles?
While Scholey is frequently cast as open, highly emotional, and expressive women, such as in The Split or The Couple Next Door, DI Bell is muted, steely, and protective, hiding a softer interior beneath a tough professional shell.
How many episodes are in Winter Season 1?
The first season of Winter consists of six gripping episodes, all of which drop simultaneously on ITVX on launch day, with weekly broadcasts on ITV1.
