The story
In 2006, Alexander Litvinenko is poisoned in London. From his hospital bed he talks to Metropolitan Police detectives, and this four-part drama follows what comes next: the painstaking investigation into who was responsible and the long, determined campaign by his wife Marina to prove who was responsible and see them named, a fight that stretches over a decade.
Why it matters
Litvinenko was made for ITVX and announced as part of the line-up for ITV's new streaming service in 2022, premiering there that December. With David Tennant in the title role and sales to more than 80 international markets, it showed ITV launching high-profile drama on its streamer first.
Born online
Made for ITVX by Tiger Aspect, Litvinenko was announced in March 2022 as part of the launch slate for ITV's new streaming service and premiered on ITVX on 15 December 2022. The source does not record an earlier linear broadcast.
Notable facts
- It was sold to more than 80 international markets, with AMC+ holding exclusive US rights. (source)
- David Tennant met Marina Litvinenko and said he felt a responsibility to her. (source)
- ITV also commissioned an hour-long companion documentary from Firecracker Films about the polonium poisoning. (source)