Holliday Grainger Embraces Dystopian Future in The Capture's Return
As the acclaimed techno-conspiracy drama The Capture makes its highly anticipated comeback for a third series, star Holliday Grainger opens up about the show's chilling relevance in an era dominated by artificial intelligence. The Manchester-born actor, who plays DCI Rachel Carey, reveals how the series' exploration of deepfakes, cyber-attacks, and government surveillance has reshaped her worldview and prepared her for a potentially dystopian future.
A Thrilling and Timely Premise
The new season kicks off with a gripping sequence at Heathrow Terminal 5, where a hostile Russian asset uses real-time image manipulation to bypass border controls. This plotline, crafted by creator Ben Chanan, delves into themes of AI misuse, state-sponsored hacking, and the dark web, making viewers question the very nature of truth. Grainger describes the show as "a longform Black Mirror", noting that each series pushes technological boundaries just beyond current reality.
"In the era of AI, it feels more and more timely," Grainger explains. "Ben does extensive research with advisers from the Met, counter-terrorism units, and military consultants. The chill comes from their bluntness—they share day-to-day work that's already happening, which is the scariest part. If this is what they can tell us, what are the real secrets?"
AI's Real-World Implications
With the White House posting AI-generated images on social media, the line between fact and fiction blurs. Grainger points out that the show's once-farfetched concepts now seem plausible due to rapid technological advancements. "Things are developing at an astonishing speed," she says. "The pace of progress and lack of guardrails make it sinister. AI could be brilliant if used right, but misinformation is rampant, and that makes me nervous."
She also highlights AI's threat to creative industries, citing friends who have lost jobs over rights to their performances. "Will AI end human artistry? It's amazing technology, but humans always find ways to misuse it," Grainger reflects.
Behind the Scenes of The Capture
In the new series, Grainger's character, DCI Rachel Carey, ascends to acting commander of the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command. To prepare, Grainger underwent firearms training, learning the nuances between military and police techniques. "I'm fully prepared for our dystopian future now!" she jokes, adding that she performs many of her own stunts, including a challenging one-shot sequence in a van.
Grainger also notes how real-life police have been influenced by TV portrayals. "When I shadowed officers at Hendon, they discussed outfits from shows like The Fall. It's funny—they're dressing like the cops on the telly," she laughs, revealing that Carey's iconic coat is tailor-made and not available for purchase.
Topical Themes and Career Reflections
The Capture tackles prescient issues such as immigration, anti-activism, and geopolitical tensions with Russia. Grainger praises Chanan's foresight: "Ben has an uncanny knack for seeing where things are about to go." The show also touches on institutional power dynamics, with conversations about "the establishment boys' club" feeling particularly resonant amid recent scandals.
Beyond The Capture, Grainger is wrapping up the seventh season of Strike, where she plays private investigator Robin Ellacott. Looking ahead, she muses about her career evolution: "I've had my northern parts, period princesses, and now my detective era. Maybe action or romcomaction is next—I'd be well up for that!"
The Capture returns to BBC One on 8 March, with episodes available on BBC iPlayer from 6am, offering a thrilling dive into the perils of technology and truth.
