Movistar plus+ snags gripping spy thriller 'secret service'
In a move signaling intensified competition within the Spanish streaming landscape, Movistar Plus+ has secured exclusive rights to air the highly anticipated British espionage thriller, Secret Service. The acquisition underscores the platform’s aggressive strategy to bolster its content library with international hits, a tactic that has proven successful in attracting and retaining subscribers.
A legacy of british espionage on movistar plus+
Movistar Plus+ has long cultivated a taste for British television, and Secret Service is set to continue that tradition. Following successful acquisitions such as Trespass, which debuted in November 2025, the platform is clearly betting on the proven appeal of high-quality British drama. The acquisition of Secret Service, with its pedigree and star power, suggests a serious commitment to building a robust catalogue of international content.
Secret Service, adapted from Tom Bradby’s 2019 novel of the same name, promises a tense narrative centered on the fragile relationship between the United Kingdom and Russia. The series unfolds as a potentially devastating discovery: a prominent UK politician may be a Russian operative. Agent Kate Henderson of MI6 finds herself thrust into a high-stakes investigation with far-reaching consequences.
The series, comprised of five episodes, benefits from Bradby’s own involvement in the scriptwriting process alongside Jemma Kennedy, ensuring a faithful adaptation of the novel’s intricate plot and relentless suspense. Initial reports liken the series to “what would happen if Agatha Christie wrote a thriller,” hinting at a complex narrative brimming with twists and turns.
Gemma arterton leads an all-star cast
At the heart of Secret Service is a compelling performance by Gemma Arterton, who embodies the formidable Agent Kate Henderson. Arterton, known for her roles in films like The King’s Man and Quantum of Solace, will not only drive the investigation forward but also gradually reveal Henderson's complex personal history. Joining her is Rafe Spall, alongside a supporting cast including Alexander Terentyev, Roger Allam, Avi Nash, Alex Kingston, and Mark Stanley. The series benefits from the directorial vision of James Marsh, whose previous works, such as Man on Wire and The Theory of Everything, demonstrate a keen eye for cinematic storytelling and suspense.
The production, filmed in 2025, is generating considerable buzz, particularly given its setting in both London and Finland. While the UK premiere remains pending this spring, Movistar Plus+ subscribers are eagerly awaiting its arrival. The question now is how Movistar Plus+ will choose to release the series – a weekly rollout or a binge-worthy drop – a decision that will significantly impact viewer engagement.
With this acquisition, Movistar Plus+ reinforces its position as a key player in the Spanish streaming market, demonstrating a willingness to invest in premium international content to satisfy a discerning audience that demands quality and intrigue.