ITV launches five-part drama The Party this weekend

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 09:55 · Archive

ITV will broadcast a five-part drama based on Elizabeth Day's novel, starring Luke Evans and Tom Cullen.

ITV will broadcast a five-part drama this weekend based on Elizabeth Day's novel. Luke Evans plays Martin Gilmour, a journalist shaped by a lifelong friendship with Ben Fitzmaurice, a wealthy and charismatic politician played by Tom Cullen.

Martin is raised alone by his working-class mother and wins a scholarship to an elite boarding school, where he meets Ben. The two forge an unbreakable bond, with Ben's family giving Martin a sense of belonging he has always craved. Martin remains unflinchingly loyal to Ben through subsequent crises.

Three decades later, Martin is invited to Ben's lavish birthday party at the Fitzmaurices' country house. The news of the Conservative leader's resignation threatens to derail the event, as Ben considers announcing his intention to stand. Martin fears the publicity that Ben's bid would bring, as it risks dredging up secrets of their shared past with tragic consequences. The drama moves between the shocking events of the party and the police investigation that follows, with flashbacks to their lives at school, university and during London's party days.

The Party was filmed in Wales and will air on ITV1 and ITVX from 9pm on Sunday, 11 October.

How it is being reported

• Full cast list for ITV's gripping new drama The Party starring Luke EvansITV will release a new gripping drama this weekend - see the full cast list, what it's about and how to watch it.Oxfordshire Guardian · 9 Oct, 09:21
• Full cast list for ITV's gripping new drama The Party starring Luke EvansITV will release a new gripping drama this weekend - see the full cast list, what it's about and how to watch it.Oxford Mail · 9 Oct, 09:21

In this story: Luke Evans · Tom Cullen · Elizabeth Day · ITV · Wales

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