This week brings thrilling performances from some of the biggest names in crime drama world — Keeley Hawes and Anna Friel. And we get another episode of the brilliant cat-and-mouse thriller Smoke where the twists just keep coming.

Unforgivable is a heavy new drama series on BBC iPlayer and BBC Two. Set in Liverpool, it explores the impact of grooming and sexual abuse on the Mitchell family, focusing on Joe (Bobby Schofield), who seeks rehabilitation after prison, while his sister (Anna Friel) struggles to support her family through the aftermath.

Season 2 of the detective series The Gone is returning to the BBC, following Irish detective Theo Richter (Richard Flood – Red Rock, Grey’s Anatomy) and New Zealand’s Diana Huia (Acushla-Tara Kupe – Under the Vines) as they investigate the mysterious disappearance of Irish investigative journalist Aileen Ryan (Carolyn Bracken) in the rural town of Mount Affinity.

Rounding out the slate is Keeley Hawes’ The Assassin on Prime Video. Hawes as a retired assassin reunites with her estranged son, but her dangerous past catches up with them, forcing them to go on the run together while uncovering a dark conspiracy that threatens their relationship.

Unforgivable – BBC iPlayer and BBC Two – 24 July

Unforgivable is a powerful new drama on BBC iPlayer and BBC Two, crafted by acclaimed writer Jimmy McGovern and director Julia Ford. Set against the backdrop of Liverpool, the series delves into the devastating effects of grooming and sexual abuse on the Mitchell family. The story centers on Joe (Bobby Schofield), who, after serving his prison sentence, seeks rehabilitation with the help of Katherine (Anna Maxwell Martin), while his sister Anna (Anna Friel) struggles to hold her family together amid the trauma.

The Gone Season 2 – BBC Two – 31 July

The eagerly anticipated second season of the detective thriller The Gone returns to BBC Two on 31 July. Irish detective Theo Richter (Richard Flood – Red Rock, Grey’s Anatomy) teams up again with New Zealand’s Diana Huia (Acushla-Tara Kupe – Under the Vines) as they pursue leads on the disappearance of investigative journalist Aileen Ryan (Carolyn Bracken) in the remote town of Mount Affinity. Viewers may recall the first season’s finale left viewers on edge, with Aileen’s fate hanging in the balance.

The Assassin – Prime Video – 25 July

The Assassin stars Keeley Hawes as a retired hitwoman who must reconnect with her estranged son while confronting threats from her shadowy past. Filmed in scenic Greece, the series combines intense family drama with high-stakes action, as mother and son are forced to go on the run and unravel a dangerous conspiracy that tests their bond. Praised by The Guardian as “supremely confident TV,” this thriller promises a stylish and thrilling ride.

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