ITV’s New Thriller ‘Gone’
The ITV thriller Gone stars David Morrissey as the headmaster of a renowned private school who is suspected of killing his wife. The series, which has already generated significant interest, was filmed in and around Bristol, showcasing the region’s picturesque landscapes.
The school featured in the series is Downside School, a real public school located in Bath. Filming also took place in the village of Saltford, adding local charm to the production. Sets for the police station and various interiors of the Polly house were constructed at The Bottle Yard Studios, a prominent filming location in Bristol.
David Morrissey, reflecting on his character, stated, “He’s a product, certainly, of his institution,” hinting at the complexities of the role. Co-star Eve Myles described the narrative as “a fascinating story, it’s an extraordinary case to follow,” emphasizing the gripping nature of the plot.
The storyline of Gone is based on the real-life murder of Melanie Road, a 17-year-old who was sexually assaulted and murdered in June 1984. This historical context adds a layer of depth to the series, as it explores the impact of such tragedies on communities.
Cheltenham Festival Coverage on ITV
In addition to its drama offerings, ITV is gearing up for the upcoming Cheltenham Festival, which will take place from March 10-13, 2026. Viewers in the UK can watch the first five races of the festival on ITV1, although the final two races of each day will not be broadcast on ITV but can be viewed via Racing TV.
This year, ITV’s Cheltenham coverage has sparked some controversy, particularly regarding the inclusion of influencers, which has divided fans. Chris Hughes, a familiar face in the coverage, was dropped after six years, citing cost-cutting measures as the reason for his departure. Hughes remarked, “I never once asked for more money, I was simply told they were cost cutting across sport.”
Recent clips from the festival have garnered impressive viewership, with a clip featuring GK Barry and Calfreezy chatting with Oli Bell reaching 1.3 million views. Another video showcasing Lossiemouth winning the Unibet Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy attracted 55,800 views, highlighting the festival’s popularity.
Tickets for the Cheltenham Festival vary in price, with a daily Club Enclosure ticket costing £103.50, while Tattersalls tickets are priced at £73.80. For those looking for a more affordable option, a day ticket for the Best Mate enclosure is available for £54.
As the festival approaches, fans are eager to see how ITV will navigate the challenges of coverage and viewer engagement. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any further changes to the lineup or format of the broadcasts.
