Silk (2011)
A gripping BBC legal drama charting the fierce ambition and moral battles of barristers competing for the rank of Queen's Counsel.
Silk - Series Information
- Original Title: Silk
- First Air Year: 2011
- Last Air Year: 2014
- Created by: Peter Moffat
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (60 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 18
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: February 22, 2011 (Canada - 18+), February 22, 2011 (United Kingdom - 12), February 22, 2011 (Germany - 12), February 22, 2011 (Australia - M)
- Networks: BBC One
- Production Companies: BBC
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
- Alternative Titles: 羅虽 (TW), Silk – Roben aus Seide (DE), 皇家律师 (CN)
Silk - Plot
Silk is a British television drama series produced by the BBC and first shown in 2011. Written by Peter Moffat, the series follows a set of barristers, and what they do to attain the rank of Queen's Counsel, known as 'taking silk'. Passionate defence barrister Martha Costello faces challenging cases and surprising clients, which test her faith in the criminal justice system. Gifted colleague Clive Reader is called to the bar with her. They work hard with pupils, Nick Slade and Niamh Cranitch, but ultimately only one can eventually be taken on as a member of chambers.
Silk - Trailer
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Silk - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Peter Moffat
Main Cast
- Maxine Peake
- Rupert Penry-Jones
- Neil Stuke
- Theo Barklem-Biggs
- John Macmillan
- Alex Jennings
- Frances Barber
- Amy Wren
- Phil Davis
- Tom Hughes
Writers
- Peter Moffat
- Colin Teevan
- Mick Collins
- Debbie O'Malley
- Steve Thompson
Executive Producers
- Hilary Salmon
Silk - FAQs
What does 'taking silk' mean in the series?
'Taking silk' is the process by which a barrister is appointed Queen's Counsel (QC), one of the most prestigious ranks in the British legal profession. The term comes from the silk gown QCs are entitled to wear. In the series, this coveted promotion drives the rivalry and ambition of the central characters.
Is Silk worth watching for legal drama fans?
Absolutely. Silk stands out in the legal drama genre for its authentic portrayal of the British bar, sharp writing by Peter Moffat — himself a former barrister — and a magnetic lead performance by Maxine Peake. The moral complexity of the cases and the competitive chambers dynamics make it compelling viewing from start to finish.
Where can you stream Silk online?
Silk is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and BritBox via Apple TV Channel. If you prefer to own it, episodes can be purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Free viewing options include The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video Free with Ads, and Hoopla.
Is Silk based on a true story?
Silk is not based on a single true story, but creator Peter Moffat drew heavily from his own experience as a practising barrister before turning to writing. The cases, courtroom dynamics, and chambers politics reflect the real world of the English criminal bar, lending the series an unusually grounded and credible authenticity.
Who plays Martha Costello and Clive Reader in Silk?
Martha Costello QC is played by Maxine Peake, whose fierce, principled portrayal earned widespread critical praise. Rupert Penry-Jones plays her rival and colleague Clive Reader QC. Their contrasting approaches to law — Martha's passionate idealism versus Clive's pragmatic ambition — form the emotional and dramatic core of the series.
How many seasons and episodes does Silk have?
Silk ran for three seasons on BBC One, each consisting of six episodes, for a total of 18 episodes. The series aired from 2011 to 2014. Each season deepens the professional and personal stakes for Martha and Clive as their pursuit of Queen's Counsel status intensifies.
Did Silk win any awards or receive critical recognition?
Silk earned strong critical acclaim throughout its run. Maxine Peake received a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress for her role as Martha Costello, and the series was widely praised for its intelligent scripts and authentic legal atmosphere. It is consistently cited as one of the finest British legal dramas of its era.
What are similar shows to Silk for legal drama fans?
If Silk hooked you, try Showtrial for another sharp British courtroom drama, or Rumpole of the Bailey for a classic take on the English bar. Better Call Saul offers a darker, cinematic legal journey, while Extraordinary Attorney Woo brings a fresh and charming perspective to courtroom storytelling from South Korea.
More About Silk
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