British television network ITV launched its new six-part crime drama, Winter, on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The show features Richard Armitage as an unconventional forensic pathologist solving complex murder cases in Bristol. Adapted from the French series Balthazar, the thriller follows Dr. Ethan Winter alongside newly transferred Detective Inspector Lauren Bell, played by Annabel Scholey, and Detective Sergeant Ellis Daldry, portrayed by Jamie Kenna, as they investigate a series of mysterious deaths.
The narrative opens with the discovery of a woman’s frozen corpse inside a refrigerated truck. This sets off a central plotline tied to the unsolved murder of a person close to Winter a decade prior. Alongside weekly self-contained investigations, this overarching mystery runs through the heart of the six-episode series.
Plot and Production Background
In Winter, Dr. Ethan Winter is introduced as one of the most gifted pathologists of his generation. He possesses an extraordinary analytical mind and impeccable deductive reasoning. His rule-breaking approach and ability to glean clues from victims allow him to see details that others miss. However, his methods and charm mask a man tormented by the violent death ten years ago of someone close to him.
Although the official case was closed and a man put behind bars, a recent suicide arriving in the lab bears a chilling clue. It echoes the earlier tragedy and shakes Winter to the core, forcing him to unofficially investigate the cold case alongside his day-to-day duties.
The series was adapted for television by writers David Allison (The Couple Next Door) and Mark Greig (Ashes to Ashes). Eagle Eye Drama produced the show and co-produced it with MASTERPIECE in association with ITV Studios and Happy Duck Films. Filming took place on location in Bristol and Belgium.
Full Cast and Characters
Led by recognizable names from British and international television, the ensemble cast brings the Bristol-set murder squad to life:
- Richard Armitage as Dr. Ethan Winter
- Annabel Scholey as DI Lauren Bell
- Jamie Kenna as DS Ellis Daldry
- Ben Castle-Gibb as Austin Dawson
- Carlotta Banat as Simone Edwards
- Jay Taylor as Antony Marlowe
- Georgie Fellows as Julia Graves
- Adwoa Akoto as Jamila Ross
- Bob Cryer as Ron Talbot
- Layla Simmons as Agatha
- Josh Barrow as Eddie Garside
- Rishi Rian as Rohan Chaudhary
- Julian De Backer as Benjamin Draper
- Laura Bayston as Sonia Erickson
- Joan Iyiola as Nita Adeyemi
- William Owen as Brian Pickles
- Matt Emery as Robert Parker
- Marianne Oldham as Florence Dellaway
- Roze Elisa as Fazia Das
- Sophie Dix as Paula Graves
- Ellis Elijah as Connor Marlowe
- Dennis Overeem as Aaron Worth
- Caroline Donnelly as Judge
- Lucy Brownhill as Jury Forewoman
Where to Watch and Broadcast Details
Winter premiered on ITV1 and STV on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 9:00 PM. The complete six-part series dropped simultaneously as a boxset on ITVX and STV Player. Viewers in the United States can watch the series on PBS MASTERPIECE.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ITV’s Winter about?
Winter is a six-part crime drama following Dr. Ethan Winter, a brilliant yet unconventional forensic pathologist in Bristol. He uses his unique insights to solve complex murders alongside DI Lauren Bell while secretly investigating an unsolved tragedy from his past.
Who stars in Winter?
The series stars Richard Armitage as Dr. Ethan Winter and Annabel Scholey as DI Lauren Bell. They are supported by Jamie Kenna as DS Ellis Daldry and a large ensemble cast including Carlotta Banat, Jay Taylor, and Josh Barrow.
Is Winter based on another show?
Yes, the series is adapted from the French crime-thriller drama series Balthazar, which originally aired between 2018 and 2023.
Where was Winter filmed?
While the story is set in Bristol, the series was filmed on location in both Bristol and Belgium.
How many episodes are in the first season?
Season one consists of six one-hour episodes. Each features a self-contained crime story alongside the ongoing series-long personal mystery.
