BBC Unforgivable Drama Explores Family Abuse Aftermath

The BBC drama Unforgivable, written by acclaimed writer Jimmy McGovern, aired on July 24 and follows the fictional Mitchell family as they cope with the aftermath of sexual abuse committed by a family member. The story centers on Joe, who, after serving a prison sentence, enters a rehabilitation center and undergoes therapy while supported by a former nun, Katherine, to understand and face the consequences of his actions. Meanwhile, his sister Anna struggles with the impact of his crime on her family, including her sons and their grandfather. Set and filmed in Liverpool, the drama explores the extensive ripple effects of abuse from multiple perspectives and the difficult path toward healing, with strong performances praised from the cast including David Threlfall, Anna Friel, Bobby Schofield, and Anna Maxwell Martin. Viewers found the drama deeply unsettling yet powerful, lauding its sensitive treatment of a challenging subject and the emotional depth of the performances. Social media reactions highlighted the drama as a difficult but important watch that raises awareness about the effects of grooming and sexual abuse on families.