Keeley Hawes Discusses Success of Amazon Thriller The Assassin
The hit series balances gritty action with a complex, relatable mother-son dynamic.
1Surprising Demographic Success
Amazon Prime Video's thriller The Assassin has achieved unexpected popularity among older demographics, including women in their 70s and 80s. Despite the show's intense violence and explicit language, star Keeley Hawes notes that this specific audience finds the series highly engaging, proving that the narrative appeal transcends traditional age-based genre expectations.
2Season Two Plot Dynamics
In the second season, the relationship between former hitwoman Julie and her journalist son Edward faces renewed strain following a dramatic incident. The plot intensifies when Edward’s wife, Kayla, is kidnapped during their honeymoon, forcing the estranged pair to reunite and utilize Julie’s lethal skills to navigate a dangerous criminal underworld.
3Record-Breaking Streaming Performance
The series soared up Amazon’s charts upon its 2025 premiere, becoming the highest-rated UK original drama of the year. Data from overnights.tv indicates that the show reached a peak of 1.6 million viewers within its first seven days, highlighting a strong market demand for high-stakes, character-driven action thrillers on streaming platforms.
4Authenticity in Action Sequences
The show distinguishes itself from slick spy franchises by prioritizing grounded, gritty combat. Keeley Hawes describes the fight choreography as visceral and believable, citing a memorable car sequence involving a poodle as an example of the show’s unpredictable tone. The production emphasizes realistic physical struggles rather than stylized, polished cinematic action.
5Contrast in Character Approaches
Julie and Edward represent two opposing survival methods. While Julie instinctively reaches for weapons in an armoury, Edward relies on cautious, defensive choices like wearing riot gear. This contrast creates comedic and dramatic tension, as Edward lacks natural combat instincts but remains determined to rescue his wife despite his mother's eye-rolling.
6Complex Mother-Son Bond
Beyond the criminal plots, the core of the series is the dysfunctional yet honest relationship between Julie and Edward. Freddie Highmore notes that their dynamic evolves beyond traditional roles, resembling equals or best friends. This direct, often abrasive communication style allows them to navigate high-pressure situations that would overwhelm most typical families.
7Tonal Balance and Humor
The show maintains a unique tone that blends gruesome violence with dark, shared humor. Actors Keeley Hawes and Freddie Highmore emphasize that their off-screen rapport helps define the show's sensibility. This balance ensures that even during intense scenes, the characters remain grounded, relatable, and deeply connected through their mutual, albeit unconventional, reliance.
8Future of the Series
While The Assassin has garnered significant acclaim and high viewership, Amazon Prime Video has not yet officially renewed the series for a third season. The current narrative leaves the future of Julie and Edward’s volatile partnership uncertain, leaving fans waiting for news on whether their complex, action-packed journey will continue further.
Original article: Metro UK — Keeley Hawes Discusses Success of Amazon Thriller The Assassin