Jack Thorne Navigates Controversy with New Drama ‘The Hack’
Jack Thorne expresses significant anxiety about his upcoming ITV drama, The Hack, which delves into the highly sensitive phone-hacking scandal involving News UK, culminating in the Leveson inquiry of 2011. This seven-part series stars David Tennant as investigative journalist Nick Davies, alongside Toby Jones, Rosalie Craig, and Steve Pemberton portraying key figures in the scandal. The show aims to highlight the best of British journalism while critiquing its darker aspects, reports BritPanorama.
Thorne acknowledges the weight of scrutiny that comes with such a project, stating, “It’s a show about journalists that’s going to be judged by journalists.” He reveals his trepidation about entering an environment where a substantial portion of the media landscape is against him. “I try really hard not to be, but I think I’m a bit of a coward,” he admits, highlighting his wariness about critics.
Despite his concerns regarding reviews, Thorne admitted to engaging with them, confessing, “I’m pathetic. I can still quote you bad reviews from 2006.” His honesty about the pressures of critical reception underscores the tension he feels about releasing a show that examines a complicated subject matter.
The inspiration for The Hack stemmed from Thorne’s realization that the narrative surrounding the scandal had been simplified in his memory. He was tasked with portraying how deeply the press, police, and politicians struggled to take allegations seriously. Thorne found this commitment to accuracy both challenging and liberating, saying, “You’re carried by the wave of truth.”
Amidst his professional struggles, Thorne recently celebrated a personal milestone as his previous drama, Adolescence, won eight Emmy awards, further solidifying his reputation in the industry. He recalls the experience as “dream-like,” marvelling at the global reception of a drama that explores life in northern England without pandering to international norms.
Thorne’s work often ignites intense debate, and Adolescence has triggered extensive media coverage addressing its portrayal of topical societal issues. “It all went a bit wild,” he explains, reflecting on the mixed responses the show received, including accusations of agenda-pushing and race-swapping. “We weren’t telling the story of every kid in every classroom,” he defends, asserting the narrative focus on Jamie Miller’s story rather than broader generalizations.
Thorne expresses a desire for the industry to remain open to diverse storytelling, despite recent financial challenges that may stifle innovation. He stresses the need for stories that resonate deeply with audiences beyond the confines of typical detective genres. “Audiences want more than detective shows,” he notes, advocating for the importance of new, daring narratives.
This year has tested Thorne’s limits, as he juggles multiple ambitious projects, including Falling and a BBC adaptation of Lord of the Flies. Recognizing the impact on his family life, he admits, “This year has been the hardest I’ve ever worked in my life. I can’t do this year again.”
As he prepares for the launch of The Hack, Thorne remains committed to exploring pressing social themes through the lens of captivating characters and stories, asserting, “The world’s in a bit of a mess right now and TV can help.”
‘The Hack’ continues on Wednesday at 9pm on ITV1
