Suranne Jones Discusses Role in Netflix Thriller “Hostage”

Suranne Jones stars in the new Netflix drama Hostage, which premieres on August 21, 2025. The series features a gripping narrative centered around political turmoil and high-stakes negotiations. Jones portrays Abigail Dalton, a fictional British Prime Minister, who finds herself in a dire situation when her husband, Alex, played by Bashy, is kidnapped while on a humanitarian mission in French Guiana. The kidnappers demand Dalton’s resignation, threatening to harm her husband’s fellow doctors unless their demands are met.

In a recent interview, Jones shared insights into her character and the creative process behind the series. The show, which also stars Julie Delpy as the French president, explores the complexities of female leadership in a predominantly male-dominated political landscape. The two leaders engage in tense negotiations regarding Channel boat crossings and NHS medication supplies, leading to a politically charged and suspenseful storyline.

Jones, who serves as both star and executive producer, was actively involved in decisions regarding her character’s appearance, including makeup and costume choices. She noted that these elements are crucial for portraying the pressures faced by real-world female politicians. Reflecting on her character’s transformation throughout the series, Jones mentioned, “Abigail matches [Vivienne] in a way. She gets a little bit more put together as her life starts falling apart, which is interesting.”

The show also highlights the physical toll that political office can take, a theme Jones and Delpy observed while researching real-life politicians. “We noticed the instant changes in their hair and pallor when they take office,” Jones explained. This observation is reflected in Dalton’s drastic hairstyle change, which symbolizes her readiness to tackle the challenges ahead.

Jones humorously recounted her son’s reaction to her new look, stating, “He said, ‘Mummy, please don’t pick me up at the school gates.’” Despite his embarrassment, she appreciated the change, seeing it as a way to shed distractions and focus on her demanding role.

Hostage marks a significant entry into the realm of streaming for Jones, who has established herself as a prominent figure in British television through shows like Vigil and Gentleman Jack. The series aims to offer a fresh perspective on female leadership, with a narrative that emphasizes women managing critical situations rather than being sidelined.

With its release just around the corner, anticipation is building for Hostage. The series promises to deliver a powerful exploration of political dynamics and personal sacrifice, set against the backdrop of contemporary issues. As Jones prepares for viewers to experience this thrilling political drama, she expresses her hope that it resonates with audiences seeking engaging storytelling.

Hostage will be available on Netflix starting August 21, 2025.