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Des
Overview
The story of one of the most infamous cases in UK criminal history, that of serial killer Dennis Nilsen. Told through the prism of three men, the series explores the personal and professional consequences of coming into contact with a man like Nilsen.
Status
Ended
Created By
Lewis Arnold, Luke Neal
Network
ITV1
Seasons & Episodes

Miniseries
Episodes

Episode 1
On 9 February 1983, Detective Chief Inspector Peter Jay discovers a drain clogged with rotting flesh and bones. The culprit, Dennis Nilsen, freely admits to the police that it's not just one or two bodies, but "15 or 16, I think".

Episode 2
With limited resources, Jay and the police continue to dig into Nilsen's memories in an effort to convict him for the murder of every one of his victims. But when Des withdraws his cooperation and stops talking, Jay fears justice will be lost.

Episode 3
Reeling from Des' change in plea, Jay and the police throw themselves into proving premeditation. If they can show the court that Des was undoubtedly of sound mind when he committed his crimes, he will go down and never be released.
Top Cast

David Tennant
Dennis Nilsen

Daniel Mays
DCI Peter Jay

Jason Watkins
Brian Masters

Ron Cook
DSI Chambers

Faye McKeever
Linda Jay

Barry Ward
DI Steve McCusker

Ben Bailey Smith
DC Brian Lodge
Alex Bhat
DS Jones

Jay Simpson
DS Chris Healey

Bronagh Waugh
Charlotte Proctor

Joel Morris
Tim Wells

Laurie Kynaston
Carl Stottor




