Olivia Colman’s “gut-wrenching” drama is ready to watch but fans have warned it’s not for the “jolly-hearted”.
Hayley Anderson TV Reporter
10:45, 05 Dec 2025
A “hard-hitting” drama starring Olivia Colman is now available to stream for free, with the Broadchurch and The Crown star appearing alongside a Walking Dead icon.
Originally broadcast on Channel 4 in 2013, Run is a four-part anthology series weaving together the narratives of four seemingly unrelated individuals, each facing life-altering decisions.
Colman, whose extensive credits also include Peep Show and Fleabag, stars in the first episode alongside acting heavyweight Lennie James. James is best known for his role as Morgan Jones in AMC’s post-apocalyptic drama The Walking Dead, and as DCI Tony Gates in the first season of Line of Duty.
Viewers can now stream Run for free on ITV’s streaming platform ITVX, where it ranks among the top 10 most-watched shows.
In Run, Colman and James portray Carol and Richard respectively. The official synopsis for the first episode reads: “Carol is a tough single mother striving to keep her family together.
The Walking Dead and Line of Duty actor Lennie James stars in the 2013 drama Run. (Image: CHANNEL 4)READ MORE: Alex Scott shares update on devastating family news after I’m A Celebrity exitREAD MORE: Strictly Come Dancing celebrity opens up on future after exit
“When her teenage sons commit an act of random violence that ends in the death of a stranger, Carol faces the impossible choice of protecting her children or doing the right thing.”
The cast of Run also includes Jaime Winstone from Made in Dagenham and daughter of Ray Winstone, Harry Potter actress Katie Leung, and Maria Critchley of Waterloo Road fame.
Audiences have described the overlooked drama as “honest, heartbreaking and hopeful”, though some caution that it may not be suitable for those of a more sensitive disposition.
“Great series for those who like actors at their best!”, one viewer posted, while another enthused: “Love how this series of separate episodes each connect with each other, whilst you witness the impact of ripple effect.
Harry Potter actress Katie Leung stars in Channel 4’s 2013 drama Run. (Image: CHANNEL 4)
“Quite dark, gritty and everything great about British drama! You will either love it for its raw truth, or hate it for its tone.”
Another viewer agreed, stating: “This four-part drama is not for the jolly hearted but instead more for serious lovers of honest drama.
“It pulls no punches and is as gritty as it gets. Gut wrenching from all members of the cast. Sadly this excellence seems to have passed by now forgotten.”
Run is available to stream on ITVX.
