Malice

Adam Healey arrives as a genial private tutor hired by the wealthy Tanner family, charming his way into their home and routines while quietly altering the balance between them. At first his lessons seem harmless, a steady presence who softens family tensions, but subtle maneuvers and unsettling private moments make what seemed simple into something menacing. The Tanners, led by Jamie and Nat and raising teenagers Kit and April, each react differently to Adam's presence, which exposes old grievances and new doubts. The series moves slowly, revealing secrets in measured beats so you start questioning who is protecting whom and why. Tone leans toward psychological suspense, and the writing favors slow revelations over flashy twists, and rewards quiet observation.

Malice premiered in 2025, created by James Wood and led by Jack Whitehall, David Duchovny, Carice van Houten, Harry Gilby, and Teddie Allen. It was produced for television, framed as a slow burning drama mystery from its launch.

As of early reception Malice hasn't picked up major awards or high profile nominations. Individual performances, especially Whitehall's shift to darker material, drew attention from critics and awards pundits, while writing and atmosphere were noted in seasonal round ups, leaving the series poised for potential future recognition.

Though relatively new, Malice prompted lively social media debate about class, privilege, manipulation, and the unreliable narrator trope. Viewers flagged Whitehall's darker turn against his earlier comedic image, and selected scenes and theory threads circulated widely, and spurred podcast discussions that helped the show reach audiences beyond initial reviews.

Critical response is mixed to positive, with a 6.9/10 vote average from early viewers. Reviewers highlighted strong acting and a tense atmosphere, while some found the pacing sluggish. Major themes include power imbalance, secrecy within affluent households, and how charm can be wielded as a tool of control.