Quick Summary
Birthday Party – Theo’s niece is abducted on her birthday, with the kidnappers demanding the release of an accomplice jailed for murdering a police officer, and the episode features a guest appearance by Richard Gere.
About This Program
Programme Overview
Birthday Party is a gripping episode broadcast on ITV4 that plunges viewers into a high‑stakes drama centred on a family celebration turned nightmare. The story unfolds on the birthday of Theo’s niece, when a ruthless group of criminals seize the young girl and issue a chilling ultimatum: secure the release of their accomplice, who is currently detained for the murder of a police officer. The episode weaves together the urgency of a birthday celebration with the tension of a kidnapping, creating a pulse‑pounding narrative that holds the audience in suspense from start to finish.
What to Expect
The episode balances emotional depth with relentless action. As Theo races against the clock, the viewer is drawn into the moral dilemmas and desperate measures taken to protect a loved one. The criminals’ demand for the accomplice’s freedom adds a complex layer of legal and ethical conflict, highlighting the stark contrast between familial love and the unforgiving world of crime. The tension is amplified by the ticking clock of the birthday celebration, making each moment feel both personal and perilous.
Special Guest Appearance
Adding a touch of international gravitas, the episode features a guest starring role by acclaimed actor Richard Gere. His presence brings a distinguished performance that enriches the storyline, offering a compelling counterpoint to the central drama. Gere’s involvement underscores the episode’s ambition to deliver a high‑quality, emotionally resonant experience for UK television audiences.
Why Watch
For viewers of British TV seeking a tightly‑crafted drama that blends family sentiment with edge‑of‑your‑seat suspense, Birthday Party delivers a memorable hour of entertainment. Its focus on a relatable family event, set against the backdrop of a serious criminal plot, offers both emotional engagement and thrilling intrigue. Airing on ITV4, the episode promises a polished production that appeals to fans of intense, character‑driven storytelling within the UK television landscape.
Kojak broadcasts on ITV4 at 0:35pm, Thursday, 6 November 2025. (Subtitles)