The ITV detective drama "Professor T" is back for its fourth series, with star Ben Miller reprising his role as the highly strung sleuth Jasper Tempest. The show, which has already seen its fifth series air in the U.S., continues to delve into Tempest's significant "mother complex" and his struggles with profound psychological issues.
Nearly every male character in the series appears to be intimidated by women, a dynamic amplified by the formidable female characters surrounding Tempest. His overbearing mother, played by Frances de la Tour, remains a central influence, alongside his bossy therapist Dr. Helena Goldberg (Juliet Stevenson) and his forthright secretary Ingrid (Sarah Woodward). The series also introduces Zoe Wanamaker as Tempest's boisterous Aunt Zelda, whose candid remarks and actions, such as her comparison of her own body to her sister's, provide both comedic and psychological depth.
Dr. Goldberg is showing signs of a more than professional interest in Tempest, adding another layer to his complex personal life. Even at the police station, Tempest is managed by Chief Inspector Maiya Goswami (Sunetra Sarker), who treats him with a mixture of exasperation and pity, highlighting his social awkwardness.
In the first case of the new series, Tempest investigates the disappearance of a young man's girlfriend during a boat trip intended to scatter his mother's ashes. The mystery unfolds to reveal that the deceased mother was a child psychologist who practiced "tough love." Her son, overwhelmed by a lack of affection, ultimately kidnapped his girlfriend and staged her disappearance to simulate her suicide, driven by a need to control fantasy.
Amidst the returning cast, DC Chloe (Rhian Blundell), recently promoted to CID, is presented as one of the few women who does not appear to exert a domineering influence. However, the narrative suggests she will soon develop confidence as she realizes her male colleagues are intimidated by her.
