Netflix has unveiled the first images from its highly anticipated new thriller, "Run Away," confirming a New Year's Day 2026 release for the series filmed extensively across Liverpool. The drama, based on the novel by blockbuster author Harlan Coben, features a star-studded cast including James Nesbitt, Minnie Driver, and Ruth Jones.
The eight-episode series used several notable locations in the city's Georgian Quarter as the backdrop for its gripping narrative. Production crews were a visible presence in the area earlier this year, transforming familiar streets into the setting for the dark, twisting story.
Key Takeaways
- Netflix has released first-look images for its new series "Run Away".
- The show was filmed on location in Liverpool, including the Georgian Quarter.
- It stars James Nesbitt, Minnie Driver, Ruth Jones, and Alfred Enoch.
- All eight episodes will be available to stream globally from January 1, 2026.
Liverpool's Georgian Quarter on Screen
Liverpool's distinct architecture will be showcased to a global audience when "Run Away" premieres. Film crews were spotted in several key locations, bringing the high-stakes drama to life on the city's streets.
Residents saw production activity centred around the junction of Canning Street and within the scenic Falkner Square Gardens. The surrounding area, including Grove Street, was used for parking production vehicles, indicating a significant filming operation in the heart of the city.
A Magnet for Major Productions
Liverpool has become a premier filming destination in the UK, often doubling for major cities like New York and London. Its well-preserved architecture and the support of the Liverpool Film Office have attracted major productions, including "The Batman," "Peaky Blinders," and several Marvel projects, injecting millions into the local economy.
A Gripping Story of Family Secrets
The series follows the story of Simon, played by James Nesbitt, a man whose seemingly perfect life unravels. He has a loving wife, children, a great job, and a beautiful home, but everything changes when his eldest daughter, Paige, runs away.
Years later, Simon finds her dishevelled and addicted to drugs in a city park. His attempt to bring her home results in a violent confrontation that forces her to flee once more. This event plunges Simon into a dangerous criminal underworld as he desperately searches for his daughter, uncovering secrets that threaten to destroy his family forever.
Series at a Glance
- Title: Run Away
- Platform: Netflix
- Author: Based on the novel by Harlan Coben
- Episodes: 8
- Release Date: January 1, 2026
An All-Star Cast Comes to Liverpool
The production brings a wealth of acclaimed talent to the city. The series is led by James Nesbitt ("Cold Feet," "The Hobbit") as the desperate father, Simon. He is joined by Academy Award nominee Minnie Driver ("Good Will Hunting"), who plays his wife.
Key Roles and Familiar Faces
The ensemble cast also includes several well-known actors from British television and film:
- Ruth Jones: The "Gavin and Stacey" co-creator and star plays Elenaor Ravenscroft, a sharp private investigator. First-look images show her character examining a crime scene.
- Alfred Enoch: Known for his roles in the "Harry Potter" franchise and "How to Get Away with Murder," Enoch portrays detective Isaac Fagbenle.
- Tracy-Ann Oberman: The "EastEnders" and "Doctor Who" actress also features in the cast, adding to the series' impressive lineup.
The newly released images from Netflix offer a glimpse into these characters' roles, showing Nesbitt in a tense moment, Jones as the inquisitive investigator, and the dramatic interplay between the cast members against the backdrop of the city.
What to Expect from the Harlan Coben Adaptation
Harlan Coben's previous adaptations for Netflix, such as "The Stranger" and "Stay Close," have been huge international successes, known for their fast-paced plots, shocking twists, and complex characters. "Run Away" is expected to follow this successful formula.
The story explores themes of family, loss, and the hidden secrets people keep. As Simon delves deeper into the criminal world to find his daughter, he is forced to confront uncomfortable truths about his own life and the people he thought he knew.
With its high-profile cast, proven source material, and the cinematic backdrop of Liverpool, "Run Away" is positioned to be a major streaming event when it arrives on New Year's Day 2026.