ITV is set to debut a gripping four-part true crime drama titled Believe Me, showcasing the harrowing experiences of victims of one of Britain’s most notorious sex offenders. The drama will air soon on ITV1 and ITVX, featuring a talented cast including Aimée-Ffion Edwards as Sarah, Aasiya Shah as Laila, and Daniel Mays as John Worboys.
Overview of Believe Me
Believe Me highlights the tragic reality faced by victims when they seek justice. The series portrays the story of John Worboys, labeled the ‘black cab rapist’, who targeted women under the guise of a reputable taxi driver. Convicted in 2009 for multiple sexual offenses against twelve women, he was revealed to have a far broader impact on over a hundred potential victims.
The Victims’ Struggle
The narrative follows Sarah and Laila, two women who reported their assaults to the Metropolitan Police, only to encounter negligence and disbelief in the investigative process. The drama exposes the difficulties victims face, such as invasive questioning and the trauma of recounting their experiences. Laila’s encounter with an officer questioning her choice of nail varnish exemplifies how victims are often dismissed.
Legal Battles and Triumphs
Motivated by their experiences, Sarah and Laila teamed up with solicitor Harriet Wistrich and barrister Phillippa Kaufmann QC to sue the Metropolitan Police. Their case was based on the failure of the police to conduct a thorough investigation, subjecting them to distressing treatment. Remarkably, they won the case, and when the police appealed, they triumphed again at the Supreme Court.
A Campaign for Justice
The drama also features Carrie Symonds, who had a near miss with Worboys in her youth. As a senior member of the Conservative Party press team, she risked her career to lead a campaign for a judicial review of Worboys’ parole decision. The collective efforts of Sarah, Laila, and Carrie ultimately led to the quashing of Worboys’ parole.
Impact on Legislation
The bravery displayed by these women brought about significant legal changes regarding the treatment of sexual assault victims. Sarah emphasized the importance of being believed, stating that pursuing justice should not entail further trauma for survivors.
Messages from the Cast and Creators
Reflecting on the series, Carrie Johnson stressed the need for a cultural shift within law enforcement to better support victims. She highlighted that women must be treated with respect and seriousness when they come forward.
Production Details
Academy Award-nominated screenwriter Jeff Pope leads the project as executive producer, alongside director Julia Ford and producer Catrin Lewis Defis. The series was filmed in Cardiff with support from the Welsh Government through Creative Wales. Believe Me will be available for viewing on ITVX and STV Player, bringing attention to a story that demands to be told.
- Title: Believe Me
- Network: ITV1 and ITVX
- Key Cast:
- Aimée-Ffion Edwards as Sarah
- Aasiya Shah as Laila
- Daniel Mays as John Worboys
- Themes: True crime, victim advocacy, legal struggle
- Filming Location: Cardiff
