Netflix has released the trailer for Black Doves, a Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw-starring, six-episode spy thriller set for release this December. Take a look above.
The Plot
Knightley portrays Helen Webb, a wife and mother who secretly works as an operative for a clandestine organisation known as the Black Doves. For a decade, she has been covertly passing government secrets obtained from her husband, Wallace Webb—a Conservative Minister of Defence played by Andrew Buchan—to her employers. The assassination of her secret lover, Jason (Andrew Koji), thrusts Helen into a perilous quest for answers.
To assist and protect her, Helen’s handler Reed (Sarah Lancashire) enlists Sam Young, an old friend and professional assassin portrayed by Whishaw. Sam, who has distanced himself from his former life after a mission went awry, returns to a London that may feel both familiar and changed. Together, they navigate a web of intrigue that could link the city’s underworld to larger geopolitical tensions.
An Ensemble Cast
The series features a diverse supporting cast. Kathryn Hunter plays Lenny Lines, who provides Sam with his first assignment upon his return. Gabrielle Creevy appears as Eleanor, a cynical assassin with a sharp sense of humour. Omari Douglas takes on the role of Michael, Sam’s former romantic partner, adding layers to Sam’s personal journey. Adeel Akhtar portrays Richard Eaves, the Prime Minister, introducing political stakes to the unfolding drama.
Knightley spoke to Netflix site Tudum about the physicality of the role, stating, “It’s been great fun to do all of the fighting. I’ve really enjoyed learning all of the different martial arts that I have been taught.”
Behind the Scenes and Future Prospects
Black Doves is created and written by Joe Barton, known for Giri/Haji and The Lazarus Project. Reflecting on the creation process – and why the action is set during the holidays – Barton said, “I started writing the scripts for this show over last year’s Christmas holidays, fuelled by turkey sandwiches and discarded bottles of cream liquor.”
The series is directed by Alex Gabassi (The Crown) and Lisa Gunning (The Power), with executive producers including Barton, Jane Featherstone (Chernobyl), Chris Fry (Kaos), and Keira Knightley. The collaboration brings together a team experienced in crafting complex narratives that blend personal stories with broader themes.
Netflix has confirmed that Black Doves will return for a second season, as announced during the Edinburgh TV Festival. The early renewal indicates confidence in the series, which certainly looks to be ticking off the right boxes for a hit. We’ll see.
Release Date
Black Doves is set to premiere on Netflix on 5 December.
