Watch The Barking Murders

The Barking Murders is a gripping true crime series produced by BritBox that revisits one of the most shocking serial killer cases in UK history. The show follows Detective Superintendent Steve Wilkins (played by Luke Evans) and his team as they delve into the horrific murders of five young men in the Barking area of London during the late 20th century.

The series is based on the book 'The Barking Murders: Serial Killer Stephen Port Uncovered' by BBC journalist Tony Blockley. It provides an in-depth analysis of how the police apprehended the killer, Stephen Port, and the devastating impact the murders had on the victims' families and the LGBT+ community.

Port, who is played by actor and comedian Stephen Merchant, was a former chef who used dating apps to lure gay men to his apartment in the Barking area. There, he would drug and rape his victims before killing them and dumping their bodies in nearby locations. His actions went unchecked for several years, partly due to the police's initial reluctance to investigate the crimes as murders, instead treating them as accidental overdoses.

The Barking Murders is not for the faint-hearted. The show deals with sensitive issues, such as rape and murder, and may be triggering for some viewers. However, it is an important and necessary retelling of the events surrounding the case, which led to a national inquiry into the police's handling of the crimes.

Throughout the series, the actors deliver haunting performances, particularly Evans as the determined and empathetic Wilkins, who tirelessly leads the investigation despite facing obstacles and setbacks from higher-ups in the police department. Merchant's portrayal of Port is unsettling and eerie, capturing the killer's deceptive and manipulative persona.

The show's attention to detail is impressive, with accurate depictions of the investigation, including the use of CCTV footage and phone records, as well as reenactments of the crimes themselves. The series also explores the social climate of the time, particularly the stigma and discrimination faced by the LGBT+ community in the aftermath of the murders.

The Barking Murders is a difficult watch, but it shines a necessary light on the case and the victims. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of finding justice for those whose voices may have been silenced or ignored. The show received critical acclaim upon its release in 2018, and remains a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts and those interested in understanding the impact of crime on communities.

In conclusion, BritBox's The Barking Murders is a chilling retelling of a tragic case that sent shockwaves throughout the UK. The series features standout performances, accurate depictions of the investigation, and a focus on the plight of the victims and their families. The show handles sensitive topics with care and presents a compelling and necessary narrative, making it a poignant addition to the true crime genre.

The Barking Murders is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between June 7, 2022 and on BritBox