ITV Code of Silence offers a thrilling crime drama that teaches us all a welcome lesson

Code of Silence, a groundbreaking ITV drama, not only delivers a gripping crime narrative but also imparts an important lesson about deafness. The six-part series, full of unexpected twists and turns, premieres at 9pm on Sunday evening (May 18).

As fans of crime dramas, we relish the opportunity to play police detective from our armchairs, but Code of Silence offers more than just that; it's a fully immersive experience, and here's why (without revealing any spoilers).

Former EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis takes the lead as Alison Brooks, an intelligent deaf woman working in a staff canteen at Canterbury police station. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she is recruited for her lip-reading skills in a covert police operation.

As the plot intensifies, her character faces dangerous challenges while navigating a world filled with secrecy and deception. Before long, Alison finds herself deeply involved in a criminal case unfolding in Canterbury, Kent.

DS Ashleigh Francis (Charlotte Ritchie) and DI James Marsh (Andrew Buchan), initially doubtful of her abilities due to her lack of formal training, are soon proven wrong by Alison's determination to demonstrate her skills, integrity and intelligence, reports

The series expertly challenges misconceptions about deafness. Despite being constantly underestimated because of her disability, Alison quickly becomes an integral part of the police investigation, showcasing her remarkable communication skills.

Indeed, she boasts the extraordinary ability to not only lip-read but also discern a person's tone without hearing their voice. From the show's opening scenes, viewers experience what Alison hears through her hearing aid - the muffled and disorientating sounds reverberating around her workplace.

The narrative throughout the series is largely supported by dialogue, subtitles, and a visual depiction of how one might lip-read - there's a lot happening on screen, but it's simply splendid. You're drawn into the storyline and into an immersive experience, making for exceptional television.

The series dismantles pre-existing notions about deafness, demonstrating that those who live with it are not all alike. Ever considered your own body language when interacting with a deaf individual?

If not, you likely will after viewing Code of Silence.

The drama is the brainchild of Catherine Moulton (Baptiste, Hijack), who drew from her personal experiences with lip-reading and hearing loss.

The detective programme also stars Kieron Moore (Vampire Academy, Masters of the Air, The Corps), Charlotte Ritchie (You, Ghosts) and Andrew Buchan (Black Doves, The Honourable Woman, Broadchurch).

With Rose at the helm as a deaf protagonist in a prime time show, it's a resounding success, and she is truly exceptional in her craft as an actress.

Code of Silence is a prime example of a crime drama that not only targets a wide audience but also offers representation for the deaf, disabled and neurodiverse communities. It does this both in front of and behind the camera, all while remaining thoroughly entertaining.

It certainly begs the question - why aren't there more shows like this?

Code of Silence airs Sunday, May 19, at 9pm, on ITV and ITVX