By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Joe Barton, the writer behind Netflix's spy thriller Black Doves, conceived the series after a Christmas party in London in 2022 and completed the first season's script in just six days.
Inspiration from a Christmas Party
While staying alone at a hotel during the festive period, Barton imagined a spy character moving through the holiday frivolity, drawing on his interest in espionage dramas.
Six-Day Writing Sprint
He wrote the entire script between Boxing Day and New Year's Day 2022. His manager quickly sent it to Keira Knightley, who read it within days and joined the project.
Quick Casting and Renewal
The series stars Knightley as Helen Webb, Ben Whishaw as Sam, and Sarah Lancashire as Mrs Reed. Black Doves became Netflix's most-watched series in December 2024 and was renewed for a second season before the first premiered.
Season Two and Beyond
Season two premiered on November 5, raising the stakes as Helen's husband nears the prime ministership. Barton said writing the second season took longer, but he is now working toward a potential third series.
