Othello

Ben Jago is a corrupt detective who uses charm and calculated manipulation to control others and advance his own agenda. His scheming targets Othello's trust, turning personal relationships into weapons. He ruthlessly exploits secrets and lies to ruin reputations and destabilize careers.

Sinclair Carver is the Commissioner of London's Metropolitan Police who resigns after using racist language. His fall triggers a political reshuffle and the publicity-seeking choice of a Black successor. His removal creates the power vacuum that Jago intends to fill.

John Othello is a Black police officer elevated to Commissioner as a political publicity stunt. He begins with confidence but becomes increasingly paranoid under Jago's manipulation. His trust is shattered, and his personal and professional ruin culminates in tragedy.

Dessie Brabant is a wealthy white woman married to Othello, whose marriage and past become a battleground for Jago's schemes. Her relationship with Cass and her perceived infidelity drive the central paranoia. She is murdered by Othello as a result of manipulation.

Michael Cass is an attractive inspector and known womanizer drawn into Dessie's orbit. Jago suggests he watch over Dessie, turning him into a pawn in the scheme. His interactions fuel jealousy and the belief in an affair that drives Othello's rage.

Lulu is Dessie’s best friend who becomes a vehicle for Jago’s manipulation. Jago seduces her to extract information about Dessie’s past, and she participates in the plan before waiting with Jago outside Dessie’s flat.

Alan Roderick is PC who provides crucial information about the Coates case and later becomes entangled in Jago's scheme. He is pressured and ultimately dies of an overdose, a death that Jago tries to pin on others.

James Brabant is a member of the Brabant circle connected to Dessie Brabant. The summary does not detail his actions, but he appears as part of the social backdrop in Dessie's life.

Geoffrey is a member of the Brabant network who appears in the cast. The summary does not specify his role, so his part is a minor supporting presence.

Alma is a minor character connected to the Brabant world; her exact role is not detailed in the summary, but she is part of the social circle surrounding the central figures.

Estelle is a minor character connected to the Brabant circle; the summary does not specify her actions, but she occupies a supporting role in the wider narrative.

PC Adey is a police officer who appears in the investigation surrounding the Coates case and the broader police scandal.

The Newsreader provides televised updates that frame public perception and the political stakes, contributing to the media-fueled tension of the story.

The prosecuting counsel represents the legal side of the Coates case, challenging police narratives and stirring courtroom dynamics that amplify the plot’s stakes.