Black Doves, a (sort-of) Christmas thriller series set to debut on Netflix this December, tells the story of Helen Webb – a mother, wife and professional spy played by Keira Knightly. Her character’s 10-year marriage to a well-known politician serves her well as she’s gathered and shared secrets with the “Black Doves,” a dark organization that inspires the title of the British story. Early plot teasers have revealed that, after Helen’s secret lover is assassinated, an in-depth investigation is launched linking the tragedy to a deeper conspiracy that will have you on the edge of your seat as Knightley and her co-stars navigate an intricate web of underworld players.

According to The Pirates of the Caribbean actress, those who enjoy watching Die Hard around the holiday season will appreciate her upcoming release most, but anyone looking for some adrenaline, action (and romance) in their life might want to spend their weekend binge-watching. Here’s everything we know about Netflix’s Black Doves so far!

‘Black Doves’ Is One of Many Releases Coming to Netflix This Week

If the original series sounds like it’s up your alley, you won’t have to wait long to check it out. All six episodes of Black Doves will debut on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 3 AM EST; while not everyone will be free to dive all the way in until the weekend, superfans of Knightley or Christmas content can set their alarms for early streaming. The leading lady is no stranger to holiday stories, of course, having previously appeared in movies like Love Actually, Silent Night, Collateral Beauty and The Nutcracker and the Four Realms.

Other noteworthy figures in the cast include Sarah Lancashire (Happy Valley) as spymaster Mrs. Reed and Ben Winshaw (This Is Going to Hurt) as Helen’s old partner, Sam. The latter character helps to protect his pal as she uncovers the details of her secret partner’s death. He might be slightly rusty after being out of the game for a bit, but Ben does his best to support Helen through this emotionally and physically demanding time while facing his own struggles. Filming for the action-packed story began in London in October 2023. Crews captured famous locations like Leadenhall Market, Millennium Bridge, Spitalfields Market and Queen’s Walk for the small screen., according to London World.

Season 2 of ‘Black Doves’ Has Already Been Confirmed 

Keira Knightley arriving at the world premiere of the Netflix series "Black Doves"
Ian West / Getty Images

In addition to enjoying the new Christmas thriller series in less than a few days, fans of the genre, storyline and cast can rejoice as a second season has already been confirmed ahead of the first season dropping, Cosmopolitan reports. The exciting news came during the Edinburgh TV festival, although there have been no details regarding the plot beyond season one.

When exactly the next episodes will drop and if filming locations will stay the same remains unconfirmed, but we’ll keep you up to date with the latest information as it arrives. What are you looking forward to most about Black Doves? Will you be pacing yourself or binging? Let us know your plans and enjoy!