True crime remains a fascinating topic, and thanks to two new documentaries this Autumn you can go behind the scenes of the intriguing careers of two of the most prominent figures to have worked in the field.
CBS Reality brings the stories of leading investigative journalist Donal MacIntyre and Jackie Malton, the former senior police officer who formed the inspiration for DCI Jane Tennison in Prime Suspect to show how each of these remarkable individuals became household names within the British judicial system.
From interviewing a gang of dangerous criminals, to tackling sexism and homophobia within the police force, each of these extraordinary life stories will provide a unique perspective on what it means to protect our country.
The first of the two series to premiere on CBS Reality is Donal MacIntyre: A Life in Crime, which will be available to watch from 13 November. Having worked as an investigative reporter for over 30 years, MacIntyre has experienced more than his fair share of danger and risk. His perilous profession has resulted in him being shot at, beaten, and forced to move house more times than he can recall, and now he’s ready to tell his story...
Marvel at the unbelievable stories of how he embedded himself inside corrupt businesses, liaised with notorious drug dealers, and conversed with criminals. Throughout his life, MacIntyre has made documentaries with the participation of some of Britain’s most dangerous men, and the results of his work have led him to become a criminologist, allowing him to investigate why individuals turn to crime in the first place.
In this series, MacIntyre revisits some of the former criminals that he made films about such as Simon Morley, a drug dealing bouncer from Nottingham. Many of the criminals that MacIntyre worked with have now reformed, and today Morley runs a half-way house for ex-offenders. MacIntyre also pays a visit to Andrew Pritchard, who he once made a film with exposing the truth behind the cocaine smuggling industry. Pritchard now runs a charity to educate people away from criminal lifestyles.
MacIntyre will also return to his roots by meeting with Professor David Wilson, the man who introduced him to the world of criminology in the first place, and Clive Driscoll, the former detective who solved the infamous murder of Stephen Lawrence.
With shocking twists and heartfelt stories at every turn, Donal MacIntyre: A Life in Crime is a documentary not to be missed!
And if that’s not enough, CBS Reality are also releasing a brand new documentary about the life of retired Detective Chief Inspector, Jackie Malton, on 14 November. Jackie Malton: A Life in Crime tells the remarkable story of how, despite facing misogyny, homophobia and alcoholism, Malton rose through the ranks of the police force to become one of the most influential officers of her generation.
After joining the police force in 1970, she was surprised to receive a handbag whilst other male recruits were given a truncheon as part of their uniform. This marked the beginning of a series of sexist and misogynistic events that took place over the following years of her career, as she uncovered corruption within the ranks of her own force.
Despite facing severe harassment and humiliation from her colleagues whilst battling an alcohol addiction, she did everything within her power to expose the corruption and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
Despite this difficult chapter of her life, Malton overcame adversity to become one of only three female Detective Chief Inspectors in the Metropolitan Police Force. With this success brought respect from her peers and attention from the author and television producer, Lynda La Plante.
After a well-deserved retirement, Malton became the inspiration for the character of Jane Tennison, the key protagonist played by Dame Helen Mirren in hit TV series Prime Suspect.
In her gripping documentary, Jackie Malton tells her story for the first time. With no details spared, this is a revealing insight into the reality of being a woman in the British police force.
With winter just around the corner, there’s no better time to trade in the pub garden for a cosy night in front of the TV. Whether you’re enjoying some well-deserved alone time or watching with the family, CBS Reality has nail-biting drama and hours of escapism available at the click of a button. Available on Freeview, Sky, Virgin, and Freesat, it’s never been easier to get your fix of true crime.
Watch the new documentaries on CBS Reality from 13 and 14 November, and discover the wealth of other crime shows on the channel. Available on Freeview (67), Sky (146), Virgin (148) and Freesat (135). Or watch on demand by downloading the CBS Catchup App.