Silent Witness 2025: Meet the Cast – David Hargreaves, Maggie Steed as Harriet Maven, and Francesca Mills as Kit Brooks
The 28th season of Silent Witness welcomes a blend of seasoned performers and exciting new talent. Among them are David Hargreaves, Maggie Steed as Harriet Maven, and Francesca Mills as Kit Brooks. Here’s an in-depth look at these pivotal characters and their impact on the upcoming season:
David Hargreaves as Benjamin Dawson
Veteran actor David Hargreaves, 84, stars as Benjamin Dawson, a central figure in the season’s opening episodes. With an illustrious career that includes roles in Dalgliesh, A Very British Scandal, and Fleabag, Hargreaves delivers a nuanced performance. Dawson’s emotional journey, marked by the disappearance of a close friend, offers a touching exploration of aging and loss, adding emotional depth to the storyline.
Maggie Steed as Harriet Maven
Maggie Steed takes on the role of Harriet Maven, the new Head of The Lyell Centre. Known for her work in EastEnders, Rivals, and Pie in the Sky, Steed brings both gravitas and charisma to the role. Harriet is a sharp-witted, no-nonsense leader whose mentorship of Nikki Alexander is as compelling as her tense clashes with Jack Hodgson, injecting fresh energy and drama into the team dynamic.
Francesca Mills as Kit Brooks
Francesca Mills joins the cast as Kit Brooks, a spirited crime analyst working alongside Jack. Renowned for her performances in The Witcher: Blood Origin and Harlots, Mills imbues Kit with enthusiasm and charm. Kit’s admiration for the late Clarissa Mullery and her eagerness to make her mark at The Lyell Centre provide a fresh perspective. As an actress with Achondroplasia, Mills also underscores the show’s commitment to inclusivity and representation.
A Fresh Team Dynamic
The arrival of Harriet and Kit breathes new life into Silent Witness. Harriet’s authoritative leadership and Kit’s youthful optimism create a dynamic contrast, while their interactions with Nikki and Jack—now engaged and navigating wedding preparations—add layers of humor and complexity.
Fans can expect another gripping season as Silent Witness continues to deliver compelling stories and unforgettable characters. The 28th series premieres on BBC One and iPlayer on January 6, 2025.