BBC First has announced the premiere of The Assassin, a high-octane six-part thriller starring acclaimed British actors Keeley Hawes and Freddie Highmore.

Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of an idyllic Greek island, The Assassin follows the story of Julie (played by Hawes), a retired contract killer who has spent the last decade living off the grid in a bid to escape her shadowy past. Her fragile peace is shattered when Edward (Highmore), her estranged son, arrives unexpectedly with questions about his identity and her mysterious past.

Their tense reunion quickly descends into chaos when danger strikes, forcing mother and son to go on the run across Europe. As they flee a relentless threat and attempt to piece together a complex conspiracy, the pair are pushed to their emotional and physical limits. Along the way, their fractured relationship is tested, secrets are unearthed, and past and present collide in a deadly pursuit.

Keeley Hawes, known for standout roles in Bodyguard and Line of Duty, brings a steely intensity to the role of Julie, while Freddie Highmore – best known for The Good Doctor and Bates Motel – portrays Edward with a blend of vulnerability and resolve.

The series promises a tense, emotionally-charged narrative with cinematic landscapes, dynamic action sequences, and a story that delves deep into themes of redemption, family and survival.

The Assassin premieres on Saturday, 26 July with two episodes released weekly, available on BBC First via UnifiTV (Channel 481), Astro GO, and BBC Player.