Netflix’s The Witness True-Crime Series Production Start in Summer 2024: Everything We Know

In collaboration with STV Studios, Netflix has joined forces to produce a fresh, original true-crime show titled The Witness True-Crime Series. The series will revolve around the tragic death of Rachel Nickell, who was murdered on Wimbledon Common by her son, Alex Hanscombe. Alex and his father, Andre, will recount their personal experience. Production for the show is scheduled to begin in the summer, and it is set to debut on Netflix in 2025.

The Witness is a new true-crime drama series on Netflix, created and produced by Rob Williams (known for his work on The Victim). The show is inspired by real-life events and explores the aftermath of the tragic murder of Rachel Nickell.

The series is produced by STV Studios, with executive producer Sarah Brown (known as “Screw”) representing them. The Witness has John Yorke as another executive producer, and Alison Sterling is also a producer for the show.

According to STV’s Creative Director of Drama, Sarah Brown, the following statement was made:

“This narrative explores the world of true crime, but from a unique perspective. It delves into a tale of both suffering and resilience, and it is an honor to join forces with Alex and Andre to bring their powerful journey to life on screen. Furthermore, we are delighted to partner once more with Rob Williams, whose compassion and skill as a writer make him the ideal candidate to convey this narrative.”

Sarah Brown sitting having paper in hand
The Guru Live Glasgow event will take place on Saturday, March 30, 2019, at The Lighthouse in Glasgow. The host of the event will be Sarah Brown, who is the Head of Drama at STV. The focus of the event will be on Telling Stories in TV Drama, as captured in the photo by Carlo Paloni/BAFTA via Getty Images.

According to Alex and Andre Hanscombe, the consultants for The Witness, they had the following statement:

“We are extremely grateful to STV Studios and Netflix for their support in sharing our story. It is a privilege to collaborate with them as well as with Rob, John, and Sarah. We owe a great deal to the entire team. Our journey has been guided by the grace of God and a commitment to move forward together. Our goal is for viewers to see the resilience required in life’s challenges and the strength of faith, hope, and love – and to never give up.”

Dan Charity - Andre Hanscombe (left) and his son Alex Hanscombe (right)
Image: Dan Charity – Andre Hanscombe (left) and his son Alex Hanscombe (right) – Credit

A comprehensive summary for The Witness has been given by Netflix.

The Witness is a story based on the real-life experiences of Alex and Andre Hanscombe, chronicling their journey from 1992 to the early 2000s as they grapple with the devastating consequences of Rachel’s brutal murder. Andre, who became a single parent overnight, set aside his own grief to focus on his son, Alex. Amidst the relentless attention of the media and a frantic police investigation, Andre’s only concern was the well-being of his young and traumatized son, who happened to be the sole witness to the attack. This touching tale portrays the resilience of a father and son as they navigate their way through the aftermath of an unimaginable tragedy, emerging from the darkness and into the light.

Rachel Nickell (left) is seen in this photo with her partner Andre Hanscombe and their son Alex
Rachel Nickell (left) is seen in this photo with her partner Andre Hanscombe and their son Alex.

According to Mona Qureshi, Director of UK Content at Netflix, she also added the following statement:

“The entire country was shaken by this incident – and although most recall Rachel’s untimely passing, it is important to also share what transpired afterward. The remarkable bond of unwavering and restorative love between a parent and a child is exemplified in the story of Alex and Andre, and we are grateful that Netflix will have the opportunity to bring this story of fortitude and perseverance to a wider audience.”

Mona Qureshi, Director of UK Content at Netflix
Image: Mona Qureshi, Director of UK Content at Netflix, speaking at The TV Festival.

The initial announcement did not include any information about the cast. We will provide updates and report accordingly in the near future.


It has been officially announced that the series will comprise three episodes, with each episode having a duration of around 60 minutes.


Production Status: Filming scheduled as of 14/03/2024 (Last Updated).

According to Netflix, production for an unspecified project will commence during the summer of 2024.


The release date for The Witness on Netflix has not been officially announced, but it is confirmed that it will be available sometime in 2025.


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