The Drowning: everything you need to know about the new thriller that has viewers hooked
Has Jodie really found her missing son?
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- (opens in new tab)
- Sign up to W&H Newsletter Newsletter

Channel 5’s The Drowning may only have debuted on February 1, but already viewers can’t get enough of this chilling drama. Produced by Noel Clarke and Jason Maza and starring the brilliant Jill Halfpenny, Rupert Penry-Jones and Cody Molko, the series is broadcast over four consecutive nights, with the finale set to show on Thursday, February 4.
Though waiting that long might prove a challenge for some viewers, as they wait to discover if the son of Jill’s character, Jodie, really is still alive. The show is co-written by Tim Dynevor, father of Bridgerton actor Phoebe Dynevor and the talented family’s success continues as the gripping writing brings The Drowning’s story of grief, mystery, and obsession to life.
But for those who have yet to dive in at the deep end of this compelling new series, we reveal all you need to know ahead of the finale ...
A post shared by Channel 5 (@channel5_tv) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
What is The Drowning about?
Hit Channel 5 show, The Drowning, focuses on mother Jodie, who is grief-stricken after her son disappeared nine years ago. Though he’s presumed dead, Jodie cannot let go of her hope that he’s still alive and after catching a glimpse of teenager Daniel, she soon becomes obsessed, believing he is her long-lost son. Whether he actually is or not, remains to be seen.
More from woman&home:
Whilst some viewers might be wondering if The Drowning is based upon a true story, the show is apparently fictional. Though there will may be families for whom the sensitive events portrayed in the show share some similarities with their own experiences.
How have people reacted to The Drowning?
Already on Twitter, fans have been quick to praise The Drowning’s plot and brilliant cast - especially Jill Halfpenny’s portrayal of grief-stricken mother Jodie.
‘It’s so good to see @halfpennyjill in the lead role in a drama! It’s what she deserves #thedrowning’ one Twitter user wrote.
It’s so good to see @halfpennyjill in the lead role in a drama! It’s what she deserves👏🏼 #thedrowningFebruary 1, 2021
Whilst another asked the ultimate question...
Looking forward to the next episode ! Great cast ! But is it him ? 😳 #TheDrowningFebruary 1, 2021
And another Tweeted: ‘#TheDrowning is absolutely amazing, had me glued to the tv from the minute it started. well done @halfpennyjill cant wait for tomorrows! X ‘
#TheDrowning is absolutely amazing, had me glued to the tv from the minute it started. well done @halfpennyjill cant wait for tomorrows! xFebruary 1, 2021
What does Jill Halfpenny make of The Drowning’s ending?
Whilst dedicated The Drowning viewers will have to wait a little longer to discover what the show’s final episode has in store for them, actor Jill has recently opened up about her own feelings about it.
Speaking recently to I Talk Telly, she explained: "I actually didn't see it coming. Some other people might, but I didn't. Endings are notoriously tricky. You just have to look at Twitter to know that no one's ever satisfied with endings!”
"But I feel like there's enough tied up and a feeling that the right things have happened, but also without it being too neat and obvious. I was satisfied with it."
We can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Emma is a Senior Lifestyle Writer with six years of experience working in digital publishing. Her specialist areas including literature, the British Royal Family and knowing all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and every streaming service out there. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, you can find Emma cooking and watching yet more crime dramas.
-
-
Noise on Netflix ending explained: What happened in *that* ending of the hit thriller?
Noise on Netflix is the latest thriller to hit the streaming service
By Robyn Morris • Published
-
Why did Addison Montgomery leave Grey's Anatomy as character returns?
Kate Walsh famously took on the role of Dr. Addison Montgomery on Grey's Anatomy in the first season of the show but eventually left - here is why
By Anna Rahmanan • Published