Slow Horses and Sherlock favourites' acclaimed drama to make streaming debut tomorrow

The National Theatre has announced it will stream David Ireland’s critically acclaimed play The Fifth Step starring Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman.

The production, which was filmed during its West End run and is directed by Finn den Hertog, will be available to stream live on National Theatre at Home on Thursday 1 October at 7pm BST.

The Fifth Step follows the relationship between Luka, a newcomer to Alcoholics Anonymous (played by Slow Horses star Lowden), and an older sponsor (played by Sherlock star Freeman) who guides Luka through the 12-step recovery programme.

“After years in the 12-step programme of Alcoholics Anonymous, James becomes a sponsor to newcomer Luka. The pair bond over black coffee, trade stories and build a fragile friendship out of their shared experiences," the synopsis reads.

It continues: "But as Luka approaches Step Five, the moment of confession, dangerous truths emerge, threatening the trust on which both of their recoveries depend."

Freeman said in a statement: “The Fifth Step was one of the real pleasures of my career thus far. There is nothing like working on a fantastic play - surprising, moving and very funny - with a director who steers beautifully, knows where the good stuff is and lets you play.

"Jack (Lowden) is just wonderful; my idea of an ideal cast-mate. Fearless and inventive. I can’t wait for it to reach a new and wider audience through National Theatre at Home.”

Lowden added: “I’m incredibly proud of The Fifth Step. Working with David (Ireland), Finn (den Hertog) and the whole team was a gift. And to go on stage each night opposite Martin (Freeman)- one of the most gifted and precise stage actors around - was bliss. It’s a mad fast, quick-witted beautiful piece and I’m so glad it’s now having its global premiere on National Theatre at Home.”

The Fifth Step was first staged in Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow in 2024 by National Theatre of Scotland, before transferring to a sold-out West End run.

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The production is from Neal Street Productions, Playful Productions and National Theatre of Scotland, in association with Nica Burns.

Matt Risley, Chief Digital Officer, National Theatre said: "Premiering The Fifth Step live on National Theatre at Home is exactly what digital-first theatre should feel like. It takes a sold-out West End hit, with two extraordinary performances from Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman beyond the stage and to a global audience.

"It’s a great opportunity to introduce this incredible production to swathes of new audiences, and for existing fans to re-watch at their convenience, too.”

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Authors

Molly Moss is a Trends Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest trends across TV, film and more. She has an MA in Newspaper Journalism and has previously written for publications including The Guardian, The Times and The Sun Online.