This modern, fast-paced legal drama that follows the rivalries, passions and intrigues of criminal law stars Maxine Peake (“Little Dorrit”) and Rupert Penry-Jones (“MI-5”) as rival barristers Martha and Clive. Written by Peter Moffat (“Criminal Justice”).
Episode One premieres Sunday, August 25 at 9 p.m. - Barrister Martha Costello (Maxine Peak) is under pressure to win cases as she aspires to rise to the rank of Queen’s Counsel, also known as “taking Silk.” In an effort to boost her Silk application, Martha takes on challenging cases to prove her merit — and an ambitious student pupil (Tom Hughes).
That Martha’s opposing counsel in a major case is Clive (Rupert Penry-Jones), a rival barrister in her chambers, complicates matters further. Will Martha be able to satisfy both the personal and the professional demands placed on her?
Episode Two premieres Sunday, September 1 at 9 p.m. - As Martha defends a vulnerable teenager, the pupils are given their first opportunity to stand up in court. In a separate case at a police tribunal, she is forced to defend a police officer accused of racism. As the pressure continues to mount for Martha and the pupils, Clive receives some astonishing news that could change not only his personal life, but life at chambers for everyone.
Episode Three premieres Sunday, September 8 at 9 p.m. - Both Martha and Clive have their Silk interviews and Martha takes on the biggest case of her life: defending a repeat offender on a murder charge at the Old Bailey. When the case begins to fall apart, Martha struggles to remain focused as the stress on her personal and private life grows. All the while, the pupils’ future and the fate of chambers hang in the balance.
SILK is a BBC/MASTERPIECE Co-Production. The executive producer is Hilary Salmon. The producer is Cameron Roach. The director is Michael Offer. The writer is Peter Moffat. The executive producer for MASTERPIECE is Rebecca Eaton.
MASTERPIECE is on Facebook, and you can follow @masterpiecepbs on Twitter. Past episodes of MASTERPIECE are available for online viewing.
