Stars Light Up Explosive Phone Hacking Drama
David Tennant, Toby Jones, and Robert Carlyle headline The Hack, ITV’s gripping new drama peeling back the shocking truths of two infamous 2000s scandals. Set from 2002 to 2012, this seven-part series dives into journalist Nick Davies’ relentless expose of phone hacking at the News of the World, and the baffling murder investigation of private eye Daniel Morgan.
The News of the World Phone Hacking Scandal Exposed
The sordid saga kicked off between 2005-2007 when it emerged that News of the World reporters were illegally tapping voicemails. Their early targets? None other than the British royal family.
- In August 2006, royal editor Clive Goodman and PI 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 nine times.
- Both served jail time after pleading guilty in January 2007.
- Editor Andy Coulson quit the same day amid the fallout.
Despite a formal apology, William and Harry launched private legal battles. Harry’s fight continued into 2019, suing the now-defunct News of the World and sister paper The Sun. William settled out of court in 2020, with Harry securing an apology by 2025.
Wider Web of Deceit: The Phone Hacking Scandal Unravels
The royal hacking was just the start. Investigations revealed a far bigger scandal targeting celebrities, politicians, and everyday Brits. The horror peaked in July 2011 when it was revealed that phones belonging to murdered Milly Dowler, bereaved military families, and 7/7 bombing victims had also been hacked.
- Public outrage toppled News Corp boss Rupert Murdoch.
- Met Police Commissioner Sir Paul Stephenson resigned amid corruption claims.
- Advertiser boycotts forced News of the World’s closure in July 2011, ending a 168-year legacy.
The Hack: A Must-Watch TV Event
The Hack stars David Tennant as Nick Davies, the relentless journalist exposing dirty secrets. Robert Carlyle plays former Detective Chief Superintendent Dave Cook, leading the hunt for Daniel Morgan’s cold case killer. Toby Jones shines as Alan Rusbridger, ex-Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian. Written by award-winning Jack Thorne and produced by the minds behind Mr Bates vs The Post Office, the series promises jaw-dropping drama and revelations.
The Hack airs on ITV and ITVX Wednesday, September 24 at 9pm. Don’t miss one of 2025’s most explosive dramas.
