The ITV original drama The Hack premieres its first season on November 9, 2025, exclusively on TVNZ+ in New Zealand. This seven-episode series explores the News International phone hacking scandal and the Daniel Morgan murder investigation through the eyes of journalist Nick Davies. Viewers can stream it for free with a sign-in on the platform.
Overview
The Hack is a gripping drama set between 2002 and 2012, delving into the intersection of media, politics, and justice. It follows Guardian journalist Nick Davies as he uncovers widespread phone hacking at the News of the World, challenging Rupert Murdoch's media empire. Running parallel is the investigation into the murder of private investigator Daniel Morgan, led by DCS Dave Cook. The series highlights ethical dilemmas in journalism, police corruption, and the fight for accountability, inspired by real events including the phone hacking scandal and the unsolved Morgan case.
Release Details
Season 1 of The Hack premieres on November 9, 2025, on TVNZ in New Zealand. All seven episodes, each 47–51 minutes long, will be available to stream on TVNZ+ in full HD for free with a sign-in. The show is an ITV production, and a trailer has already been released.
Cast and Crew
David Tennant stars as Nick Davies, with Toby Jones as Alan Rusbridger, Robert Carlyle as DCS Dave Cook, Dougray Scott as PM Gordon Brown, Eve Myles as Jacqui Hames, Steve Pemberton as Rupert Murdoch, and Jordan Renzo as James Murdoch. The supporting cast includes Katherine Kelly, Kevin Doyle, Neil Maskell, Lara Pulver, Lee Ingleby, Pip Torrens, Paul Kaye, Robert Bathurst, and Lisa McGrillis. The series is written by Jack Thorne and Annalisa Dinnella, and directed by Lewis Arnold. It shares production ties with Mr Bates vs The Post Office, echoing themes of scandal and justice.
Episode Guide
- Episode 1: Nick Davies investigates a tip-off revealing phone hacking.
- Episode 2: DCS Dave Cook starts the Daniel Morgan case, finding media links.
- Episode 3: Nick protects his editor amid pushback from media and police.
- Episode 4: Cook delves deeper with a new witness in the Morgan case.
- Episode 5: Nick collaborates with the New York Times as Andy Coulson joins Downing Street.
- Episode 6: Both investigations uncover pivotal evidence.
- Episode 7: The scandal erupts, with Murdoch facing Parliament and truths emerging.
The series underscores the challenges of exposing systemic corruption, noting that while truths surface, full justice often remains elusive.