ITV's Frauds: Suranne Jones and Jodie Whittaker Star in Spain-Set Heist Thriller

ITV's latest crime thriller "Frauds" premiered on October 5, 2025, bringing viewers a sun-soaked Spanish heist adventure starring two of British television's most acclaimed actresses. The six-part series features Suranne Jones and Jodie Whittaker as former criminal partners reuniting for one final, high-stakes art theft in the stunning backdrop of Tenerife.

Plot and Premise

The Setup

"Frauds" follows Bert, played by Suranne Jones, a convicted con artist who receives compassionate release from a Spanish maximum-security prison after serving ten years and receiving a terminal illness diagnosis. Upon her release, Bert immediately seeks out her former partner-in-crime Sam, portrayed by Jodie Whittaker, who has been waiting for her friend's return but expects a quiet retirement from their criminal past.

The Ultimate Heist

Rather than settling into peaceful final days, Bert has other plans - she wants to pull off the heist of the century by stealing Salvador Dalí's famous 1929 painting "The Great Masturbator." The artwork, painted when Dalí was just 25 years old, is considered a semi-self-portrait exploring the artist's anxieties and fears, making it both culturally significant and extremely valuable.

Star Power and Character Dynamics

Leading Ladies Break Type

Suranne Jones, known for her BAFTA-winning performance in "Doctor Foster" and her role in "Gentleman Jack," takes on the role of Bert, stepping outside her typical casting as the reckless, bawdy character determined to complete one last score. This represents a significant departure from her previous sophisticated dramatic roles.

Jodie Whittaker, famous for her groundbreaking tenure as the Doctor in "Doctor Who" and her acclaimed work in "Broadchurch," plays Sam as the brooding, reluctant partner drawn back into the criminal world. The chemistry between the two actresses drives the series, showcasing a complex friendship built on shared criminal history and mutual dependence.

Supporting Ensemble

The talented supporting cast includes Kate Fleetwood as Celine, Elizabeth Berrington as Jackie Diamond, Abdul Salis as Mateo, and Lee Boardman as Craig. The international production also features Spanish actors including Horacio Colomé, Javier Taboada, and Nansi Nsue, reflecting the show's authentic Spanish setting and commitment to local talent.

Production Excellence

Authentic Spanish Setting

Filmed entirely on the island of Tenerife, "Frauds" showcases a side of Spain rarely seen on British television. The sun-drenched landscapes and authentic Spanish atmosphere provide a visually stunning backdrop for the criminal escapades, though filming presented unexpected challenges including frequent rain during what should have been sunny Spanish weather.

Language and Cultural Authenticity

Both lead actresses had to master Spanish dialogue for their roles, working extensively with dialect coaches to achieve authenticity. Whittaker admitted she didn't speak Spanish before the series and relied heavily on language coaches and preparation tools to perfect her accent. This commitment to linguistic accuracy adds credibility to the international setting.

Creative Vision

The series was created by Anne-Marie O'Connor and Suranne Jones, with O'Connor writing the scripts. Executive producers include industry veterans from Monumental Television, part of ITV Studios, alongside international partners. The show represents a co-production approach that began filming in Spain in January 2025.

Genre and Tone

Dark Comedy Meets Crime Thriller

"Frauds" expertly blends dark comedy with crime thriller elements, creating entertainment that balances tension with humor. The series explores themes of loyalty, revenge, and the complex dynamics of toxic yet enduring friendship, while maintaining enough levity to keep viewers engaged rather than overwhelmed.

Escapist Entertainment

The show provides escapist entertainment through its combination of exotic locations, high-stakes crime, and compelling character relationships. The heist element adds traditional thriller excitement while the Spanish setting offers visual appeal that distinguishes it from typical British crime dramas.

Critical Reception and Audience Response

Challenging Expectations

Critics have noted that "Frauds" represents a significant departure for both lead actresses, challenging their typical roles and allowing them to explore new character types. While some reviewers initially found it difficult to see Jones and Whittaker in these grittier roles, the consensus suggests their performances become more convincing as the series progresses.

Performance Evolution

The series allows both actresses to stretch their acting muscles in directions they haven't previously explored on television. Jones's portrayal of the desperate, terminal con artist and Whittaker's reluctant criminal showcase range beyond their established television personas.

International Appeal and Distribution

Global Market Strategy

ITV Studios positioned "Frauds" as content with strong international appeal, showcasing the series at major television markets. The combination of established British stars with exotic Spanish locations creates a package appealing to global audiences seeking quality European drama content.

Cultural Bridge

The production's commitment to authentic Spanish settings and language, combined with the incorporation of local talent, demonstrates genuine effort to create culturally respectful international content rather than simply using Spain as an attractive filming location.

Broadcast Details and Availability

UK Premiere

"Frauds" premiered on ITV1 and ITVX on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 9 PM, representing ITV's continued investment in high-quality original drama programming featuring established British talent in fresh, challenging roles.

Episode Structure

The six-part series format allows for substantial character development and plot complexity while maintaining the focused storytelling that makes British drama series particularly effective in the international marketplace.

Conclusion

"Frauds" represents an ambitious venture for ITV, combining established star power with international production values and a compelling heist premise. The series successfully challenges both its lead actresses and audiences by presenting familiar faces in unfamiliar roles, set against the visually stunning backdrop of Spain.

The show asks viewers to accept Jones and Whittaker in grittier, more morally ambiguous roles than they typically play, but the strength of the central premise and the allure of a sun-soaked criminal adventure provide compelling reasons to invest in this unconventional partnership.

For fans of both actresses and viewers seeking escapist entertainment with substance, "Frauds" offers a unique blend of friendship, criminality, and Spanish scenery that distinguishes it in the competitive landscape of contemporary British television drama.