ITV Drama I Fought The Law Explores 1989 Julie Hogg Murder

ITV's new four-part drama I Fought The Law recounts the tragic murder of 22-year-old Julie Hogg and her mother Ann Ming's relentless 15-year fight to bring her killer to justice and change the double jeopardy law, which had remained unchallenged for centuries. The series, starring BAFTA-winning actress Sheridan Smith as Ann Ming, has been widely praised for its powerful and emotional portrayal of a mother's grief and determination, with viewers and the real Ann Ming herself describing it as a heartbreaking but important watch. The drama begins with Julie's disappearance after a late-night shift and culminates in Ann discovering her daughter's body concealed under the bathroom bath, a moment depicted with raw emotion that left audiences deeply moved. Ann's campaign challenged police failings and the justice system, eventually leading to a significant amendment in the law that allowed the reopening of cases once considered closed. The show has garnered acclaim for shedding light on systemic issues and highlighting the extraordinary resilience of a grieving mother who took on the legal establishment. Sheridan Smith's performance has been hailed as extraordinary, capturing the trauma and strength of Ann Ming's real-life battle, making I Fought The Law one of the most compelling true crime dramas of 2025.