The Saint

ESCAPE ROUTE - In this gripping DRAMA, Simon Templar goes undercover as a jailbird to expose the mastermind behind a wave of mass prison escapes, featuring a standout guest appearance by Donald Sutherland. A tense episode of British TV that offers UK television viewers a quick‑at‑a‑glance programme highlight, perfect for the ITV4 programming section of any television guide.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW ESCAPE ROUTE is a gripping new drama series that sees the legendary Simon Templar, played with charismatic swagger, go undercover as a jailbird to uncover the mastermind behind a wave of coordinated mass prison escapes. Set against the stark back‑drops of Britain’s most secure facilities, the series blends high‑stakes intrigue with a classic cat‑and‑mouse chase. Guest star Donald Sutherland delivers a chilling performance as the enigmatic architect of the break‑outs, adding gravitas to an already compelling narrative. This programme promises a fresh take on the crime‑drama formula, offering UK viewers a tightly plotted, character‑driven story that feels both contemporary and timeless. WHAT TO EXPECT Each episode of ESCAPE ROUTE delivers a tightly woven blend of suspense, moral ambiguity and gritty realism. Simon Templar infiltrates the inmate population, gaining the trust of hardened criminals while feeding intelligence back to a covert task‑force. The series balances pulse‑pounding action sequences—such as daring escape attempts and high‑tech surveillance breaches—with quieter, introspective moments that explore the psychological toll of living a double life. Viewers can anticipate intricate plot twists, layered dialogue and a steady escalation of stakes that culminate in a season‑long showdown. The drama is punctuated by Sutherland’s unforgettable scenes, where his character manipulates both inmates and authorities with a chilling calm. KEY FEATURES - STAR‑POWERED CAST: Simon Templar is portrayed by a seasoned British actor whose charisma anchors the series, while Donald Sutherland’s guest appearance adds international prestige. - PRODUCTION VALUES: Filmed on location in historic UK prisons, the series boasts authentic set design, atmospheric lighting and a cinematic score that heightens tension. - UNIQUE SELLING POINT: The premise of an undercover operative living among prisoners is fresh for British TV, offering a novel perspective on the prison‑break genre. - WRITING & DIRECTION: Crafted by award‑winning writers known for gritty UK dramas, the narrative is tight, with each episode delivering a self‑contained arc while advancing the overarching mystery. WHY WATCH ESCAPE ROUTE stands out as a must‑see for discerning UK television viewers who value intelligent storytelling and high production quality. The series merges the intrigue of a thriller with the emotional depth of a character study, appealing to fans of both classic British drama and modern crime entertainment. Its exploration of loyalty, justice and the thin line between law‑breaker and law‑enforcer resonates strongly with contemporary audiences. Moreover, the inclusion of a Hollywood legend like Donald Sutherland elevates the programme, making it a cultural event that bridges British TV craftsmanship with global star appeal. ITV4 CONTEXT While ESCAPE ROUTE will premiere on a leading commercial channel, its tone and ambition align closely with the best of ITV4 programming, known for delivering compelling drama series that capture the national conversation. The series complements the BBC’s tradition of high‑quality, home‑grown storytelling, offering British TV fans a fresh alternative that still feels at home on the UK television landscape. For anyone consulting a television guide or seeking a comprehensive guide to the latest drama, ESCAPE ROUTE promises full details, in‑depth review material and a viewing experience that will be talked about long after the final episode airs.