Two-time Academy Award® nominee Janet McTeer (Damages, The Honourable Woman) stars in this gritty prison drama by acclaimed British crime writer Lynda La Plante (Prime Suspect, The Commander). After a disastrous riot at Barfield Prison, Helen Hewitt (McTeer) helps investigate an inmate's suspicious death. When the governor of Barfield is subsequently ousted, Helen takes the job, becoming the youngest woman in charge of an all-male prison. Determined to clean up the place, she causes resentment among both prisoners and officers with her new ideas and no-nonsense attitude. Despite the odds stacked against her, Helen works tirelessly to earn the respect she deserves. With shocking plots and pointed social commentary, The Governor delivers a brutal, unflinching look at prison life and the challenges that women in power confront. The excellent cast also includes Academy Award® nominee Sophie Okonedo (Hotel Rwanda), Eamonn Walker (Chicago Fire, Oz), Derek Martin (EastEnders), Ron Donachie (Game of Thrones), and Golden Globe® winner Idris Elba (Luther, Thor films).
After a disastrous riot at Barfield Prison, Helen Hewitt joins an investigation team tasked with looking into a suspicious death. When the governor of Barfield is ousted, Helen takes the job, becoming the youngest woman in charge of an all-male prison and causing resentment among both prisoners and officers.
Helen's television appearance doesn't go as planned when she is blindsided by the prison refurbishment costs. Tensions are high as a prisoner attempts to escape, a cell is burgled, and a wealthy new inmate arrives.
Two new admissions arrive: Norman, a tough and dangerous prisoner, and Anthony, a young and scared first-time offender. Following the escape, the prison service place Helen under review and consider shutting down Barfield.
Anthony and three other prisoners stand trial for their part in the hanging incident. Helen is called as a witness to the prosecution and spars with Anthony's formidable lawyer.
As Barfield Prison begins to take shape again, Helen hires several new officers and two female employees: psychologist Maureen and educator Zania. Having lied about his marital situation, prisoner Alan is granted home leave for the weekend.
Barfield wakes up to a tragedy involving Alan as Helen prepares for an important visit from headquarters. Maureen leads a drama group, but Helen and the officers believe she's getting too close to Norman. Anthony and dealer Snoopy plan a hit on their tormentor, Braithwaite.
