Introduction

Set to premiere later in 2025 on Sky Max and NOW in the UK and Ireland, The Iris Affair is a high-tension, eight-part thriller from acclaimed screenwriter Neil Cross, best known for Luther. This show is already generating buzz for its sun-soaked Mediterranean backdrop, compelling protagonists, and a cat‑and‑mouse chase that promises to keep viewers hooked

Plot & Premise

The Iris Affair centres on Iris Nixon (played by Niamh Algar), a prodigious codebreaker who stumbles onto a mysterious online puzzle. Her brilliance draws her into the orbit of Cameron Beck (Tom Hollander), a charismatic tech-philanthropist. When Iris discovers the true, dangerous nature of the code, she absconds — igniting a high-stakes pursuit across Italy, from Florence to a cabin in Sardinia, and beyond

Cast & Characters

  • Niamh Algar (Iris Nixon) – fresh off roles in Malpractice and Mary & George, Algar delivers a nuanced portrayal of a smart, resourceful heroine

Tom Hollander (Cameron Beck) – known for The White Lotus and The Night Manager, Hollander embodies the enigmatic and affluent tech mogul at the core of the narrative

Supporting cast includes Kristofer Hivju, Sacha Dhawan, Harry Lloyd, Maya Sansa, Debi Mazar and more – a diverse ensemble enriching the high-stakes drama

Production & Creative Team

The show is penned and show‑run by Neil Cross, with a writing team featuring Susan E. Connolly and Ian Scott McCullough Directing credits go to Terry McDonough (Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul) and Sarah O’Gorman (The Witcher, A Gentleman in Moscow) Filming took place through summer 2024 in Florence, Rome, Cagliari and Alghero in Sardinia — the vibrant Mediterranean settings add cinematic flair

Why It Matters

  • Genre appeal: A fast-paced chase thriller with tech intrigue, emotional depth, and international settings — ideal for fans of Luther-style tension

Star power: With Algar and Hollander front and centre, the series brings strong performances and audience credibility.

International distribution: A Sky Studios/Fremantle production, The Iris Affair is set to launch across the UK, Ireland, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Austria — with plans for worldwide distribution

Release & Streaming Info

  • Episodes: 8 parts; first-look images unveiled May 2025

Platform: Premiering exclusively on Sky Max and streaming via NOW in UK and Ireland

International rollout: Also airing on Sky platforms in DACH region and Italy, with Fremantle overseeing global rights

Final Verdict

The Iris Affair is shaping up to be one of 2025’s standout British thrillers — thanks to a sharp premise, charismatic leads, cinematic locations, and the creative pedigree of Neil Cross and Terry McDonough. Perfect for anyone hungry for tense, intelligent drama. Make sure to add this to your UK streaming watchlist!