Netflix has confirmed the development of Witch Hunt, a new gothic thriller series created by Abi Morgan that will reunite the writer with actress Sarah Lancashire more than two decades after their last collaboration. The project, consisting of six episodes, is scheduled to premiere in 2028.
The series combines elements of gothic horror with a dark thriller set in contemporary Cambridge, blending local folklore with a criminal investigation. Although the exact release date has not yet been revealed, Netflix has already given the project the green light and confirmed its lead actress.
What is Witch Hunt about?
The official synopsis introduces August Howell, a descendant of the so-called Witch of Cambridge, who returns to her community after serving three decades in prison for drowning her three young daughters. Her return is not welcomed by the neighbors.
When signs emerge that her return has triggered a modern-day witch hunt in the university town, the police turn to August's only surviving daughter, Professor Wren Howell, an academic and investigative psychologist, to help track down a killer as past resentments and local folklore collide.
Confirmed cast of Witch Hunt
For the moment, the only confirmed addition to the cast is Sarah Lancashire, who will play August Howell. The British actress is recognized by Netflix audiences for her role as Reed in Black Doves, as well as for productions such as Happy Valley, Last Tango in Halifax, The Accident, and Lark Rise to Candleford. In the United States, she is also remembered for playing Julia Child in the HBO Max biographical series Julia.
What Abi Morgan said about working with Sarah Lancashire again
The series creator, Abi Morgan, known for her work on Eric and The Split, explained the significance of working with Lancashire again after more than 25 years without collaborating on a project.
Morgan stated: "I last worked with Sarah Lancashire over 25 years ago. Since then, I have been looking for the perfect role for her. This is it. I can't think of anyone better to embody the terrifying tenderness of the Witch of Cambridge. It is gothic horror combined with a dark thriller, steeped in modern witchcraft, which poses the question: can August ever be forgiven for her crime?".
Creative team and production company behind the series
Abi Morgan not only writes and creates the series but also serves as an executive producer alongside Jane Featherstone, who recently oversaw the Netflix thriller Black Doves. Sarah Lancashire is also listed as an executive producer on the project.
Production is handled by SISTER Pictures, the company that brings Morgan and Featherstone back together following previous collaborations, with Holly Pullinger serving as producer.
When does Witch Hunt premiere on Netflix?
Netflix has confirmed that Witch Hunt will arrive on the platform sometime in 2028. An exact date or a more precise release window has not yet been announced.
Production status of Witch Hunt
Currently, the series is in active development. There is no official confirmation regarding the start of filming. Given that Netflix has already announced the 2028 release, it is reasonable to expect that filming will begin sometime in the spring of 2027, although this date has not been officially confirmed by the platform.
Frequently asked questions about Witch Hunt
When does Witch Hunt premiere on Netflix?
Netflix has confirmed that the series will arrive in 2028, but an exact release date has not yet been announced.
Who stars in Witch Hunt?
Sarah Lancashire plays August Howell, the protagonist of the series, and is the only confirmed addition to the cast so far.
Who created Witch Hunt?
The series was created and written by Abi Morgan, known for her work on Eric and The Split, who also serves as an executive producer.
How many episodes will Witch Hunt have?
Witch Hunt will consist of six episodes as part of its first season confirmed by Netflix.
Has filming for Witch Hunt begun?
No. The series is in the development phase and there is no official confirmation regarding the start of filming yet.
