Sheridan Smith Headlines ITV Drama I Fought the Law, Portraying a Mother’s 15-Year Quest for Justice
Veteran actress Sheridan Smith takes on what she calls the most emotionally demanding role of her career in I Fought the Law, ITV’s new four-part drama series chronicling Ann Ming’s extraordinary 15-year battle to overturn the UK’s centuries-old double jeopardy law.
A Gripping True Story
Ann Ming, a retired nurse from Teesside, endured a mother’s worst nightmare when her 22-year-old daughter, Julie Hogg, was murdered in 1989. The killer was acquitted after two mistrials under the double jeopardy principle, which prevented retrial even after a confession.
Undeterred, Ann mounted a relentless campaign for legal reform, personally writing to Home Secretaries and Parliament. Her efforts culminated in the repeal of the archaic law in 2005, paving the way for Julie’s killer to be finally convicted in 2006.
Behind the Drama: Smith’s Emotional Journey
Sheridan Smith describes this role as the “hardest job I’ve ever done,” drawing deeply on personal emotion and emphasizing authenticity over technical precision.
She and Ann Ming formed an emotional bond during production, embracing on set and forming mutual admiration. Ann reportedly said watching Smith “felt like watching herself,” a reaction that moved the actress to tears during a live This Morning interview.
Local Roots, Universal Resonance
The series was filmed across the North East, in places like Teesside and Durham, with significant involvement from regional crews deeply familiar with the real-life events. A premiere screening in Durham emphasized the story’s local impact and authenticity.
Premiere Date: The first episode airs Sunday, August 31, on ITV1, and will also stream on ITVX
Format: A four-part drama series written by Jamie Crichton and based on Ann Ming’s memoir For the Love of Julie. Produced by Hera Pictures and directed by Erik Richter Strand.