He'll play Doctor Joe O’Loughlin in the new five-part drama, adapted by Peter Berry from the best-selling novel by Michael Robotham.
The Suspect introduces Doctor Joe O’Loughlin, played by Aidan Turner, who appears to have a 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?
As a successful author, Doctor 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 gripping, nail-biting thriller will be produced by World Productions - who are behind Line of Duty and Vigil and will be produced by Natasha Romaniuk and the first three episodes will be directed by James Strong with episodes four and five directed by Camilla Strøm Henriksen. The drama is executive produced by World Productions’ Head of Drama Jake Lushington, James Strong and Peter Berry.
Speaking about his new role, Aidan Turner said "I am thrilled to be taking on the complex and demanding role of Joseph O’Loughlin, a man with so much to give but so much to lose, and a hidden darker side."
Starring alongside Aidan Turner will be; Shaun Parkes, Sian Clifford, Camilla Beeput, Adam James and Anjli Mohindra.
The Suspect was the debut novel of Michael Robotham, the highly regarded best-selling fiction writer whose novels have been translated into twenty-five languages and topped best-seller lists around the world. Michael is also one of only five writers, including John Le Carre and Ruth Rendell, to twice win the UK Gold Dagger Award for best crime novel.
Speaking about adapting The Suspect for the screen, Peter Berry said "Bringing The Suspect to the screen has been a fantastic and fascinating journey. I hope the audience will find it equally enthralling as they delve into the depths of a truly iconic character caught up in a story that will test his faith in his profession, his family and himself."
And original author Michael Robotham added "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."
ITV's Drama Commissioner, Huw Kennair-Jones said "Peter has combined an exciting narrative full of twists and turns with the exploration of a richly compelling character in Joe O'Loughlin and has brought Michael Robotham's much-loved book brilliantly to life. We're thrilled to have Aidan Turner to play Joe and to be working with World Productions on what promises to be a gripping new series."
And speaking on behalf of World Productions, Jake Lushington added "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."
And finally, director James Strong said "I’m thrilled to be directing the forthcoming ITV thriller The Suspect for World Productions. Peter Berry has written an utterly compelling set of scripts that had me gripped from the first page."
"The show will be a high-octane psychological thriller - full of brilliant twists and turns, but also a fascinating insight into the mind of a top psychologist. We have assembled a brilliant cast and with London as our backdrop, I’m extremely excited to bring The Suspect to the screen."
The Suspect will be filmed on location in London during the autumn of 2021.
The Suspect will air on ITV