Is it just us or is there something strangely addictive about a tale of deception, especially when it plays out on screen? Netflix certainly thinks so, as the streamer is bringing us the ultimate one in the form of its new crime drama The Undertow. The gripping new series stars Jamie Dornan as identical twins, one of whom finds himself caught in a dangerous web of secrets and lies – and we have a feeling you’re going to like it.

Nicola (Mackenzie Davis) is in an unhappy marriage with Adam (Dornan), but has a “past” with his estranged sibling Lee (yes, also Dornan), too. And when a shocking accident leaves Adam dead, the former flames attempt to pull off a truly shocking deception. If you’re as intrigued as we are, here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming series, including the plot, cast and how you can watch it.


What is The Undertow about?

The crime noir is based on Kristoffer Metcalfe's Norwegian series, Twin, which starred Game of Thrones' Kristofer Hivju. The series will introduce us to Nicola (Mackenzie Davis), who is suffocating in a loveless marriage to Adam (Jamie Dornan). But things are about to change.

What to read next

Nicola’s life takes a drastic – and slightly terrifying - turn when Adam’s estranged identical twin brother Lee (also played by Dornan) comes crashing back into her life. You see, Nicola has a romantic history with Lee and their past threatens to destroy the present.

According to the official synopsis, "When a split-second decision and a terrible accident leaves Adam dead, Nicola acts to protect her children. Bonded by cruel fate and a long-burning love, Nicola and Lee make a pact. With Lee assuming Adam’s identity, their hope is that the police investigation will conclude that free-spirited Lee died instead of his buttoned-up brother."

Over the course of a week, Lee and Nicola struggle to maintain the secrets and lies they’ve spun. And while they can’t ignore their feelings for each other, they both know they’re living on borrowed time. From the sounds of it, it's going to be a highly addictive watch.

Who's starring in The Undertow?

mackenzie davis at the variety comic con studio, presented by google tv held at the hardrock hotel on july 27, 2024 in san diego, california. (photo by katie jones/variety via getty images)
Variety

The cast of The Undertow includes:

  • Jamie Dornan (Fifty Shades of Grey) as twins Adam and Lee
  • Mackenzie Davis (Speak No Evil) as Adam’s wife Nicola
  • Iain de Caestecker (The Winter King)
  • Gary Lewis (Gangs of New York)

How can I watch The Undertow?

Netflix hasn't yet shared a release date for The Undertow, but we do know that Jamie Dornan completed filming last year, so we're expecting it to arrive at some point in 2025. As soon as we have a confirmed date, we'll share it here.