Is The Widower series based on a true story? Explained

ITV aired three one-hour episodes of The Widower in 2014. Based on Malcolm Webster's murders, the series covers Webster's 13-year spree of poisoning and killing his first wife, attempting to kill his second and deceiving a third woman. The series also recreates important events like Webster's first wedding, making his life and crimes seem more realistic.

With its descriptions of these events, The Widower is based on a true story. In this ITV series, Webster's estranged wife Felicity Drumm, his ex-partner Simone Banerjee and Detective Inspector Charlie Henry, who helped catch Webster, give their thoughts. Their part in the story gives it more depth and realism, making The Widower an exciting account of real events.

The Widower tells the chilling tale of Malcolm Webster, a seemingly mild-mannered nurse, but nobody knows his truth. After his wife Claire dies, he spends the £200,000 life insurance and moves to New Zealand. There, he marries Felicity Drumm and plans to kill her for money.

While courting Simone Banerjee, he deceives and manipulates. The series meticulously depicts Webster's actions and their devastating effects.

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The Widower is based on a true story: Is it so?

The Apple TV series is inspired by a true story. The series speaks about the crimes of Malcolm Webster. He had been a nurse who committed heinous acts for over 13 years.

With the murder of his first wife, Claire Morris, in 1994, Webster's criminal activities started. He staged a car crash to cover up the murder and collected a large life insurance payout to start his deadly pattern.

Webster's next target was his second wife, Felicity Drumm, in New Zealand. However, her family grew suspicious, and their intervention prevented another tragedy.

Webster’s third intended victim was Simone Banerjee. He faked a cancer diagnosis to gain her sympathy and planned another murder for financial gain. His manipulative and dangerous behavior continued until the police, led by Detective Inspector Charlie Henry, arrested him.

Webster's portrayal by Reece Shearsmith is particularly noteworthy. Simone Banerjee, who used to work with Webster, said that Shearsmith's performance was "99% accurate." The show uses real footage to reenact important events, like Webster's inaugural wedding, which makes it seem more real.

The involvement of those directly affected by Webster’s crimes, like Felicity Drumm and Simone Banerjee, adds depth to the series. Their insights provided a more comprehensive view of Webster’s manipulative nature and the devastating impact of his actions.

The cast of The Widower

The talented cast of the series brings the true story to life. As Malcolm Webster, Reece Shearsmith chillingly portrays his manipulative and dangerous nature.

Felicity Webster, Webster's second wife, is portrayed with depth and emotion by Kate Fleetwood. James Laurenson plays Felicity's suspicious father Brian Drumm, who uncovers Webster's plans.

Federay Holmes as Felicity's sister Jane Drumm, aids the investigation, while Archie Panjabi, as Webster's third intended victim Simone Banerjee, are also notable. Joanna Roth's Trisha complicates the story. DI Charlie Henry, played by John Hannah, brings Webster to justice.

The true story of The Widower vividly depicts Malcolm Webster's crimes. Fans of the genre should watch the series because it accurately portrays and reconstructs real events. Despite criticism of Webster's personality, the series is a gripping and authentic portrayal of one of the most chilling true crime stories.

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The series is streaming on Apple TV.