Dramatic trailer released for new ITV drama starring Luke Evans

A gripping new drama featuring Hollywood actor Luke Evans is set to arrive on ITV/STV this autumn. Titled The Party, the five-part series is based on the acclaimed novel by Elizabeth Day and is created by the team behind Line of Duty and Vigil.

The psychological thriller explores privilege, obsession, class hierarchy and long-buried secrets, and now the explosive trailer has finally arrived.

What is The Party about?

The official synopsis reads: 'The drama stars Luke Evans as Martin Gilmour, a journalist shaped by his lifelong friendship with the wealthy and charismatic politician Ben Fitzmaurice, played by Tom Cullen.

'Raised alone by his working-class mum, Sylvia, played by BAFTA award-winning Joanna Scanlan, Martin wins a scholarship to an elite boarding school, where he first meets Ben. They forge an unbreakable bond, as Ben and the Fitzmaurice’s give Martin the sense of belonging he has always craved. In turn, Martin remains unflinchingly loyal to Ben through even the greatest crises.

'Three decades on, Martin is invited to Ben’s lavish birthday party at the Fitzmaurice’s country pile. The news of the Conservative leader’s resignation threatens to derail Ben’s party, as he considers announcing his intention to stand. Martin fears the publicity that Ben’s bid would bring, dredging up the secrets of their past with tragic consequences …

'The drama moves between the shocking events of the party and the police investigation that follows, with flashbacks to Martin and Ben’s lives at school, university and London party days.

'What unfolds is a gripping exploration of identity, privilege and devotion, combined with a tender ode to anyone who has fought to live authentically'.

Is there a trailer?

The explosive one-minute trailer was released on Wednesday 16th September, check it out below:

READ MORE: BBC thriller The Guest set for a second series

When does it start?

There's no start date just yet, but ITV/STV has said it will begin sometime in October 2026.

Who is in the cast?

The Pembrokeshire Murders and Nine Perfect Strangers star Luke Evans plays the main character of Martin Gilmour, with The Gold's Tom Cullen portraying Ben Fitzmaurice. Other notable cast members include Joanna Scanlan, Sarah Solemani and Douglas Hodge.

Luke Evans as Martin Gilmour

Tom Cullen as Ben Fitzmaurice

Sarah Solemani as Lucy Gilmour

Joanna Scanlan as Sylvia Gilmour

Lydia Leonard as Serena Fitzmaurice

Lindsay Duncan as Lady Katherine Fitzmaurice

Douglas Hodge as Lord George Fitzmaurice

Speaking about the upcoming series, Luke said: "Yes, I'm back on ITV in October with my new drama, The Party. It's full of sex, betrayal, secrets, closeted love and some very, very bad behaviour, so naturally I felt right at home!"

In a recent interview for Attitude Magazine, Luke highlighted the series’ rich themes at play, saying: “It’s all wrapped up in politics, class, the British hierarchy, old money, new money, social climbing, lies, sexuality, death, deceit, corruption and finding your authentic self..I mean, seriously, how often do you find all that within one story?”

Going on to address the complicated relationship spanning decades between central characters Martin and Ben, he added: "Yeah, Tom is straight and I’m gay, but there was no discomfort that our characters could fall in love, because that story is really the thing that should break everyone’s hearts. We both knew that we wanted this to feel beautiful and passionate and tragic and real. We were also just really good friends, which I think helped a lot.”

Check out the first look photos of The Party below:

What channel is it on?

The Party will air on ITV1/ITX and STV1/STV Player.

Is it based on a book?

It sure is, The Party is based on 2017 novel of the same name by Elizabeth Day.

Speaking about the news, Elizabeth commented: “It takes a long time and a lot of faith, and I could not believe it when I got the email from my agent saying: ‘Luke Evans has read your book.”

“I had one of Sarah’s amazing scripts, and watched Luke and Tom bring these characters who had only existed in my imagination to this breathtaking new life."

Author: Alex Ross

Alex Ross is a Digital Content Editor across Rayo brands, including the Hits Radio Network, Greatest Hits Radio, KISS, Cool FM and Magic Radio. After beginning her career as a Marketing Intern with Bauer Media in 2016, she transitioned into digital editorial and has spent the past decade creating engaging content for millions of readers. Whether it’s reality shows, sitcoms, gritty crime dramas or hard-hitting documentaries, Alex is an expert in all things TV, as well as knowing the ins and outs of celebrities.