HBO's 'War' turns celebrity divorce into a high-stakes legal thriller

Key points

• The series debuted on October 1, 2026, on HBO and Sky, with episodes airing weekly on Thursdays.
• It stars Sienna Miller as actress Carla Duval and Dominic West as tech mogul Morgan Henderson.
• The plot centers on a bitter divorce involving two rival law firms: Cathcarts & Sons and Taylor & Byrne.
• The show has already been renewed for a second season, which will focus on a defamation case.
• Critics are divided on the series, with some comparing it to 'Succession' and others finding it lacking in emotional stakes.

Background

Our archive from October 2, 2026, noted that 'War' launched as a divorce drama drawing mixed reviews and real-life comparisons. The series, already renewed for a second season, contrasts two rival law firms in a high-stakes asset split. While praised for its production value and cast, critics are divided on its narrative depth, with some comparing it to 'Succession' and others finding it lacking in emotional stakes.

How outlets are covering it

The Independent's Jane Green emphasizes the reality of divorce, contrasting the drama with the weaponization of money and lawyers. The Guardian's review calls the series 'massive, massive fun,' highlighting its high-stakes legal and non-legal shenanigans. Variety's Aramide Tinubu praises the series as 'thoroughly captivating,' noting how it goes beyond the obvious by offering glimmers of humanity. Mashable provides a guide to the rival law firms, Cathcarts & Sons and Taylor & Byrne, explaining their roles in the series.

Why it matters

The series offers a glimpse into the ruthless tactics of high-profile divorces and the lengths people will go to achieve victory. It also highlights the distinctiveness of U.K. courtrooms and the impossible choices family law attorneys must make. The show's renewal for a second season indicates its commercial success and potential for further exploration of legal drama.

What to watch

The remaining episodes of 'War' will air weekly on Thursdays. A second season has already been confirmed, which will star Marisa Tomei and Kelly Macdonald and focus on a defamation case involving the two rival law firms.