Notes on a SCANDAL

JAMES D'ARCY and CHARLIE MURPHY on their 'Hitchcockian' thriller

JAMES ALDEN JAMES D'ARCY

An investigative journalist, whose reputation has been tarnished by a high-profile mistake, finds his professional curiosity piqued by Natalie's story.

NATALIE VARGA CHARLIE MURPHY

Catapulted into the media spotlight after being accused of murdering her husband, the mysterious young woman wants to set the record straight - but on her terms.

DEADLINE NEW TUESDAY-FRIDAY, 9 PM, CHANNEL 5 DRAMA

When an enigmatic woman is accused of murdering her wealthy husband, she becomes an instant media sensation as a femme fatale in Channel 5's new four-part noir thriller, Deadline.

At first, journalist James Alden (played by Broadchurch's James D'Arcy) sees Natalie Varga's story simply as fodder for the true-crime documentaries he makes.

But when publicity-shy Natalie (Peaky Blinders star Charlie Murphy) offers him an exclusive interview in exchange for his help finding the real killer, James finds himself growing dangerously close to his subject. TV Times caught up with James, 46, and Charlie, 33, to learn more...

Can you describe the story?

JAMES It follows a man in the doldrums of his career who is intrigued by this very beautiful woman accused of murder.

He gets an interview with her, and when they meet initially, there's something between them he can't put his finger on.