ITV head into ‘The Dark’…
ITV’s Director of Drama, Polly Hill has commissioned a six-part series, The Dark, based upon GR Halliday’s debut novel, From the Shadows, adapted by Matt Hartley and produced by Poison Pen Studios, part of ITV Studios.
Polly Hill:
“The Dark is a compelling new drama which introduces the fearless DI Monica Kennedy, who has to try and catch a serial killer in this really chilling Scottish story. Matt’s adaptation is brilliantly gripping and I am delighted to be adapting this novel with him and the team at Poison Pen.”
When the body of a young man is found eerily staged in the idyllic Scottish wilderness, detective Monica Kennedy fears this is just the beginning of a terrifying campaign that will strike the heart of a rural community. As paranoia rises, suspicions and secrets are forced into the light, and the locals start to realise that there is a serial killer hidden amongst them.

Scotland / ATV
With her experience of dealing with the darkest of humanity Monica Kennedy quickly becomes entangled in a heightened game of cat and mouse with a cunning killer. Only she can stop this monster before he claims any more victims. But when her own history creeps up on her, she begins to lose trust in her own judgement. Will it be her own actions that are the biggest risk to herself and her family?
Ben Stephenson:
“The Dark is a gripping hide behind the sofa thriller with unguessable twists and a central character whose mysterious past gives her an extraordinary insight into a twisted killer as well as an overpowering empathy for those left in the killer’s wake.”
The book’s author, GR Halliday, is pleased with Matt’s adaptation and the commitment of Poison Pen Studios. The Dark marks Poison Pen’s second commission for ITV since launching in January 2023. Production will commence filming in and around Glasgow during 2025 and is produced in association with ITV Studios, who will also distribute the series internationally.