A chilling ITV crime drama from 2014 is experiencing a major resurgence, captivating a new generation of viewers on Netflix UK. 'The Widower', starring Sheridan Smith and Reece Shearsmith, has dramatically climbed the streaming service's charts since its addition on November 17, 2025.
A Terrifying True Story Captivates Audiences
The series is based on the genuinely terrifying real-life case of Malcolm Webster, a man who murdered his first wife, Claire, and then attempted to kill his second wife, Felicity, to claim life insurance money. The drama, created by Oscar-nominated writer Jeff Pope, features Reece Shearsmith in the lead role of Webster, with Sheridan Smith portraying Claire and Kate Fleetwood as Felicity.
Since landing on Netflix, the show has proven immensely popular, securing the seventh spot in the platform's TV top 10 rankings. The compelling, yet appalling, nature of the true story is a significant draw for audiences looking for gripping winter viewing.
Praise and Critique from Viewers and Those Involved
Fan reactions on platforms like Reddit and IMDb highlight the series' powerful impact. One Reddit user praised Shearsmith's 'superb' performance, noting his 'chilling looks' and 'deceptive charm'. Another viewer called his acting 'genuinely terrifying', while also giving 'massive props' to Sheridan Smith for her ability to 'sell true fear so well'.
The responsibility of portraying such a sensitive story was not lost on the cast. In a 2014 interview, Reece Shearsmith admitted to feeling 'the weight of responsibility' to get it right for the victims' families. He focused on portraying Webster's ordinary 'Doctor Jekyll' side rather than a monstrous 'Mr Hyde'.
This approach was appreciated by Claire's brother, Peter Morris, who told the Mail on Sunday that Sheridan Smith 'captured Claire completely', even noting that her mannerisms off-set were identical to his sister's.
However, not all feedback was positive. Felicity, Webster's second wife, expressed to RNZ that she felt Reece Shearsmith made the character too unlikable, arguing that the real Malcolm was 'good company, extroverted and fun', which was precisely what made him so dangerous.
A Second Wave of Success on Streaming
The drama's rapid ascent on Netflix demonstrates the enduring power of a well-told true crime story. Over a decade after its original broadcast, 'The Widower' has found a massive new audience, proving that compelling performances and a shocking factual basis can resonate deeply with viewers, regardless of when the show was first made.
For those seeking a drama that is both critically acclaimed and genuinely unsettling, this series offers a potent combination. 'The Widower' is available to stream now on Netflix UK.
