David Tennant Leads Star-Studded Cast in ITV’s Explosive New Drama
ITV’s latest must-watch drama, The Hack, packs a powerful punch with David Tennant, Toby Jones, and Robert Carlyle at the helm. This seven-part series takes viewers behind the headlines from 2002 to 2012, unveiling the shocking true stories of the News of the World phone hacking scandal and the mysterious murder of private investigator Daniel Morgan.
Inside the News of the World Phone Hacking Scandal
The infamous phone hacking scandal rocked Britain between 2005 and 2007, exposing how News of the World journalists illegally intercepted voicemails — starting with the British royal family.
- In August 2006, royal editor Clive Goodman and private eye Glenn Mulcaire were arrested for hacking phones of Princes William, Harry, and Kate Middleton.
- Goodman admitted hacking William’s phone 35 times, Kate’s 155 times, and Harry’s 9 times.
- Both men served jail sentences after pleading guilty in January 2007.
- Editor Andy Coulson quit the same day the arrests were announced.
Despite a formal apology, William and Harry launched private legal battles. Harry kept up the fight until 2019, suing the now-closed News of the World and The Sun. William settled out of court in 2020, with Harry receiving an apology by 2025.
The Scandal Grows: Widespread Phone Hacking Uncovered
The initial arrests were just the beginning. Investigations revealed News of the World hacked phones of celebrities, politicians, and ordinary citizens. Public outrage peaked in July 2011 after revelations that hacked voicemails included those of murdered Milly Dowler, families of fallen soldiers, and victims of the 7/7 London bombings.
- The scandal led to the collapse of Rupert Murdoch’s media empire grip.
- Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Paul Stephenson resigned amid the fallout.
- News of the World shut down in July 2011 after 168 years due to advertiser boycotts.
Don’t Miss The Hack – ITV’s Hard-Hitting New Drama
The Hack follows investigative journalist Nick Davies’ relentless pursuit of the truth, with Tennant delivering a standout performance. Robert Carlyle plays Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Cook, leading the hunt to crack the baffling cold case of Daniel Morgan’s murder. Toby Jones shines as Alan Rusbridger, former Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian.
Written by award-winning playwright Jack Thorne and produced by the team behind Mr Bates vs The Post Office, The Hack promises gripping drama and explosive revelations.
Catch The Hack on ITV and ITVX, Wednesday, September 24 at 9pm. One of 2025’s most anticipated dramas you won’t want to miss!
