What is The Long Shadow about?

The Long Shadow, a British drama series spanning seven parts, delves into the true crime story of Peter Sutcliffe, the notorious serial killer labeled the Yorkshire Ripper. Airing on ITV1, the dramatization explores the enormous efforts of the South Yorkshire police force as they engaged in the largest manhunt Britain had ever witnessed, from October 1975 to January 1981. The pursuit for Sutcliffe involved over a thousand police officers and spanned five years, leading to significant changes in the landscape of British police work. The series draws from a rich pool of information, including Michael Bilton's book 'Wicked Beyond Belief', case files, interview transcripts, and police reports, all woven together by screenwriter George Kay. Directed by Lewis Arnold and produced by New Pictures for ITVX, the show captures the grim atmosphere of the period and the relentless quest for justice. The documentary-style series, while deeply rooted in historical facts, is crafted to engage viewers in the complexities and challenges of the investigation. Executively produced by Willow Grylls, George Kay, Lewis Arnold, and Elaine Pyke, with Matt Sandford as the producer, it also boasts international distribution, indicating its broad appeal and relevance. The Long Shadow not only pays homage to a pivotal chapter in criminal history but also signifies the evolution of crime-solving techniques that emerged in its aftermath.

The first episode of The Long Shadow aired on September 25, 2023 and the most recent episode to air was on November 06, 2023.