Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵
Mixed Viewer Reactions to Season 5 Premiere of ITV’s Crime Drama Grace
The fifth season of ITV’s popular crime drama Grace, starring John Simm, premiered on Sunday, April 6th, and immediately sparked viewer reactions. While some expressed enthusiasm for the return of the Brighton-based series, many viewers took to social media to voice their discontent with the season premiere. Despite the episode’s focus on a high-stakes incident at a football stadium, reactions to this latest instalment of the crime drama were divided, highlighting differing opinions on the show’s direction.
Viewer Criticism of Narrative and Realism
Numerous viewers expressed dissatisfaction with the episode, raising concerns about the show’s realism and the coherence of its storytelling. Many felt the narrative structure was disjointed and difficult to follow, while others questioned the plausibility of certain plot elements.
Examples of Negative Feedback
- Some viewers criticised the overall quality, with one posting on X (formerly Twitter), “This is stupid,” and expressing a preference for another crime drama series.
- Confusion regarding the narrative was a recurring point of criticism, as exemplified by a viewer who tweeted about the constant scene changes and lack of clear structure: “This is all over the place switching from scene to scene.”
- Several viewers pointed out perceived inaccuracies and inconsistencies, with one questioning the Brighton setting and the depiction of local elements: “Places I’ve never heard of meant to be in Brighton…showing Brighton Royals like Brighton are only a league one club.”
- Boredom was also a factor for some, with one viewer simply stating, “this is boring so far.”
- The intricate plot and extensive dialogue were further criticised as convoluted and overly explanatory, with one comment highlighting “far too much convoluted information bombarded by rambling explanations.”
- For some, disappointment led to switching channels, as one viewer declared, “i’m done, turning over.”
Positive Viewer Reception
Despite the wave of criticism, a segment of the audience welcomed the return of Grace and offered positive feedback. These viewers praised the episode’s pacing, John Simm’s performance, and the engaging nature of the storyline.
Examples of Positive Feedback
- Some viewers noted an improvement in pace compared to previous episodes, with one tweeting, “Good to see this episode of #Grace has picked up the pace again after the last series.”
- Enjoyment of the series as a whole and appreciation for John Simm’s portrayal of DS Roy Grace were expressed by fans, one stating it is “always a good Sunday evening crime drama with the excellent John Simm.”
- The captivating storyline, featuring elements such as a football incident and a bomb threat, was also lauded, with one viewer tweeting, “Already hooked football, bomb threat and Grace sat with his son.”
Season 5 Details
Grace, the crime drama series, is adapted from the novels by Peter James and first premiered in 2021. Season five consists of four two-hour episodes, with the premiere airing on Sunday.
Adaptation from Peter James Novels
The current season draws inspiration from four of Peter James’s novels: Dead If You Don’t, Dead At First Sight, Need You Dead, and Find Them Dead.

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Episode Format and Number
Each episode in season five is a two-hour instalment, with a total of four episodes in this series.
Broadcast Information
Grace airs on ITV on Sundays at 8pm, and all seasons are available for streaming on ITVX.