The Copenhagen Test: Simu Liu's Brain-Hacked Spy Thriller Hits Peacock

Get ready for a pulse-pounding spy thriller as Simu Liu and Melissa Barrera lead Peacock's upcoming series "The Copenhagen Test," where deep-seated trust issues meet cutting-edge brain hacks.

TL;DR: Quick Takes on "The Copenhagen Test"

Simu Liu stars as Alexander Hale, an intelligence analyst whose brain is literally hacked, turning him into an unwitting spy for unknown enemies.
Melissa Barrera joins him as Michelle, a mysterious and deceptive character whose allegiance will keep everyone guessing in this sci-fi espionage thriller.
The eight-episode series premieres exclusively on Peacock on December 27, 2025, promising intense action, high-stakes betrayals, and a steamy dynamic.

Get Ready for Mind-Bending Spy Games Where Trust is a Dangerous Luxury

We’ve all seen spy thrillers, but "The Copenhagen Test" is about to throw us into a whole new level of paranoia. Imagine your own mind being used against you! That's the terrifying reality facing Alexander Hale, played by the ever-charismatic Simu Liu, in this upcoming Peacock original series. This isn't just about secrets; it's about losing control of your very thoughts and perceptions.

Set just "five minutes in the future," the show dives headfirst into a world where technology has advanced to the point of direct brain hacking. Alexander, a first-generation Chinese-American intelligence analyst working for a top-secret agency known as "The Orphanage," discovers his brain has been compromised. This isn't some abstract threat; it means the perpetrators have direct access to everything he sees and hears. Talk about a privacy nightmare!

Caught between his shadowy agency, who already suspect him of being a mole, and the unknown hackers pulling his strings, Alexander has to play the performance of a lifetime. He needs to act completely normal, 24/7, to try and flush out who's behind this sinister plot and, more importantly, prove his own loyalty. The stakes couldn't be higher, as he's warned: "If they suspect you’re compromised, you’re dead." No pressure, right?

Meet the Star-Studded Cast Navigating a World Riddled with Deceit

Simu Liu & Melissa Barrera Take on Brain Hacks in Peacock's 'The Copenhagen Test' image 3

Leading the charge in this high-tension drama is, of course, Simu Liu, stepping into a role that's a thrilling departure from his Marvel heroics in Shang-Chi or his charming turn in Barbie. As Alexander Hale, he brings a unique blend of vulnerability and resilience to a character fighting for his mind and his life.

Joining him is Melissa Barrera, known for her roles in In the Heights and the recent Scream films, as Michelle. She's described as a mysterious siren, a deceptive character who will keep both Alexander and viewers guessing. The teaser trailer hints at a complex relationship, showing Michelle trading both punches and steamy kisses with Alexander. Is she an ally, an adversary, or something in between? Her motives are definitely going to be a key element of the mystery.

The stellar ensemble cast also includes some familiar faces in pivotal roles:

Sinclair Daniel plays Parker, an intelligence officer who finds herself swept up into this dangerous new reality and has to adapt fast.
Brian D’Arcy James is John Moira, Alexander’s boss and mentor, known for making tough decisions – which might become very relevant given Alexander's situation.
Mark O’Brien portrays Cobb, an ambitious intelligence agent who could be friend or foe.
Kathleen Chalfant takes on the role of St. George, a quiet but influential leader focused on the long game.

With this lineup, it's clear "The Copenhagen Test" is packing serious talent to deliver a gripping story.

What the Explosive Teaser Trailer Reveals About the High-Octane Action

Simu Liu & Melissa Barrera Take on Brain Hacks in Peacock's 'The Copenhagen Test' image 4

The excitement for "The Copenhagen Test" kicked off with a bang when its teaser trailer dropped, coinciding with Simu Liu's appearance at a New York Comic Con panel. And let me tell you, it didn't hold back!

The brief but impactful teaser is a whirlwind of explosions, tense stand-offs, and Alexander Hale caught in impossible situations. We see him in action, physically fighting alongside Michelle, navigating dangerous scenarios, and grappling with the weight of his compromised mind. The trailer promises a visually dynamic and action-packed series that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Key moments from the teaser really drive home Alexander's internal conflict. We hear him declare, "I would never knowingly betray my own country," trying to assert his loyalty amidst growing suspicion. But perhaps the most chilling line comes towards the end: "I don't know who I can trust anymore." This encapsulates the core dilemma of the series – when your own senses are compromised, who can you truly rely on? The glimpse of a steamy kiss between Alexander and Michelle further complicates the trust dynamic, making us wonder if romance can survive in such a high-stakes, deceptive world.

"I don't know who I can trust anymore."

— Simu Liu as Alexander Hale in "The Copenhagen Test" teaser

The Masterminds Behind This Gripping Sci-Fi Espionage Thriller

Simu Liu & Melissa Barrera Take on Brain Hacks in Peacock's 'The Copenhagen Test' image 5

Bringing a story this complex and thrilling to life requires a formidable creative team, and "The Copenhagen Test" certainly has one. The series was created by Thomas Brandon, known for his work on Legacies. He's not just the creator; Brandon also serves as a writer, executive producer, and co-showrunner, shaping the narrative from every angle.

He's joined by Jennifer Yale, another experienced hand from shows like See and Outlander, who is also a co-showrunner, writer, and executive producer. This dual showrunner approach often leads to robust storytelling and character development.

The list of executive producers is equally impressive, featuring big names like:

James Wan (of The Conjuring Universe and M3GAN fame), along with Michael Clear and Rob Hackett for Atomic Monster, suggesting a high standard of thrilling suspense.
Simu Liu himself, adding his vision and experience both in front of and behind the camera.
Mark Winemaker and Jet Wilkinson, with Wilkinson also taking the director's chair for the first two crucial episodes, setting the tone for the entire series.

The series is a UCP production, a division of Universal Studio Group, ensuring solid backing. And for those interested in the nitty-gritty, filming for this eight-part series took place in Toronto, running from October 22, 2024, to March 06, 2025, hinting at extensive and detailed production.

Why You Won't Want to Miss This Must-Watch Peacock Series This Winter

Simu Liu & Melissa Barrera Take on Brain Hacks in Peacock's 'The Copenhagen Test' image 6

In a world where headlines are constantly discussing the ethical implications of mind-altering tech, "The Copenhagen Test" feels incredibly timely. It taps into our modern anxieties about privacy, surveillance, and the blurring lines between man and machine, offering a "five minutes in the future" scenario that feels chillingly plausible.

With Simu Liu leading the cast, supported by Melissa Barrera and an excellent ensemble, the series promises compelling performances. James Wan's involvement as an executive producer through Atomic Monster also signals that this won't be a dull ride. Their track record for delivering high-tension, suspenseful narratives, even outside pure horror, speaks volumes about the quality we can expect.

The blend of science fiction and espionage thriller genres offers a fresh take on spy stories, moving beyond traditional gadgets to explore the ultimate weapon: the human mind itself. The eight-episode format is perfect for a deep dive into its complex plot and character arcs, making it an ideal binge-watch for the holiday season.

So, mark your calendars for December 27, 2025. If you're looking for a series that will make you question everything, keep you guessing, and deliver plenty of high-stakes action, "The Copenhagen Test" on Peacock is absolutely one to watch. Get ready to have your own mind played with!

Frequently Asked Questions About "The Copenhagen Test"

When does "The Copenhagen Test" premiere?

"The Copenhagen Test" is set to premiere on December 27, 2025.

Where can I watch "The Copenhagen Test"?

You can stream "The Copenhagen Test" exclusively on Peacock.

What is "The Copenhagen Test" about?

The series follows Alexander Hale (Simu Liu), a first-generation Chinese-American intelligence analyst whose brain is hacked, giving perpetrators access to everything he sees and hears. He must navigate between his agency and unknown hackers, trying to identify the mole while proving his own allegiance.

Who are the main stars in "The Copenhagen Test"?

The main stars of "The Copenhagen Test" are Simu Liu as Alexander Hale and Melissa Barrera as Michelle. The cast also includes Sinclair Daniel, Brian D’Arcy James, Mark O’Brien, and Kathleen Chalfant.