Sky TV's supernatural thriller 'Possession' debuts, exploring colonial horror

Sky TV launched the five‑part series Possession on 6 August 2026 in the United Kingdom, with subsequent broadcasts in Germany and Ireland. The drama stars Gugu Mbatha‑Raw as lawyer Claudia McKenzie, Jonny Lee Miller as Oliver Connaught and Sheldon Shepherd as Cudjoe East. Set between Kingston, Jamaica and Bristol, England, the plot follows Claudia’s inheritance mission that uncovers a plantation’s violent slave‑era past and triggers supernatural disturbances.

Created by Karla Crome and directed by Storm Saulter, reviewers describe the show as a chilling blend of thriller, mystery and horror that links colonial violence to present‑day trauma. Critics note its “intergenerational‑trauma” theme, the vivid depiction of Tacky's War, and the series’ effort to make colonial history accessible through genre storytelling. Interviews with the cast highlight the intention to confront uncomfortable history rather than comfort the audience, while promotional pieces suggest a thematic double‑bill with the vampire series Sinners.

The series has generated discussion across entertainment outlets for its bold handling of slavery, reparations and supernatural folklore.