ITV1’s “Playing Nice” isn’t exactly playing nice with its characters. Just when you thought the baby-swap drama couldn’t get any more twisted, Episode 3 throws another wrench in the works. Pete (James Norton), already reeling from the revelation that his son isn’t biologically his, finds himself facing police questioning. It’s a downward spiral fueled by Miles (James McArdle), the other father in this complicated equation, who decides to leak Pete’s story to the press.
Miles’ loose lips cost him his job, but the fallout hits Pete even harder. As his life unravels, Pete turns his attention to Miles’ past, suspecting there’s more to the story than meets the eye. This is where “Playing Nice” truly excels: just when you think you’ve figured out the players, the game changes. The scenic Cornish backdrop becomes a stage for a psychological thriller, as the two couples grapple with the consequences of a life-altering secret.
It’s a classic setup: two families, forever linked by a hospital mix-up, now forced to confront the question of what truly constitutes family. The series deftly explores the themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to for their children, biological or otherwise. This week’s episode cranks up the tension, suggesting that the quest for answers might lead to some very uncomfortable truths. Tune in Sunday, January 12th at 9 PM on ITV1 to see just how messy things get.
“Playing Nice” airs Sunday 12 January 2025 at 9 PM on ITV1.