The Gold, a British crime miniseries inspired by the true events of the 1983 Brink's-Mat robbery, has been hailed as "remarkable" and "an exceptional story" by critics and viewers. The show, available for free on BBC iPlayer, has kept audiences on the "edge of their seats" with its gripping plot and outstanding performances.
What Is The Gold About?
Created and written by Neil Forsyth, The Gold dramatizes the infamous Brink's-Mat robbery that took place on November 26, 1983. During the heist, £26 million worth of cash, gold bullion, and diamonds were stolen from a warehouse at the Heathrow International Trading Estate in London, operated by Brink's-Mat, a joint venture between US security company Brink's and London-based MAT Transport. In 2025, the stolen loot's value would be equivalent to approximately £290 million, making it the largest robbery in history at the time.
While several arrests and convictions were made—including Micky McAvoy and Brian Robinson for armed robbery—the majority of the stolen gold has never been recovered. The series spans two seasons, each consisting of six episodes, exploring the robbery and its far-reaching aftermath.
Cast and Critical Reception
The Gold boasts an impressive cast, including Hugh Bonneville, Dominic Cooper, Charlotte Spencer, Emun Elliott, Sean Harris, Jack Lowden, and Tom Cullen. The first season aired on BBC One in February 2023, followed by the second season in June 2025.
The series has garnered a 96% score on review-aggregation site Rotten Tomatoes. Critic Barbara Allen noted: "The second and final series follows the other half of the money on an international trail that takes in the Canary Islands, the Caribbean and the Isle of Man, and it's just as remarkable and off-kilter a watch."
One fan commented: "Somehow they made the aftermath just as gripping as the robbery itself. Brilliant performances and not a wasted episode." Another added: "I thought season 2 was every bit as good as the first. I loved how the story expanded beyond the robbery itself and showed how far the consequences spread. The international money trail kept things fresh, and the performances were outstanding across the board. It never felt like a typical crime drama - more like watching history unfold with fascinating characters. Definitely one of the best British shows I've watched in a long time."
Viewer Praise and Availability
A third viewer shared: "The two seasons of The Gold form an exceptional story. Very well written, acted and directed with not a dull minute over the two six episode seasons. Highly recommended." Another said: "While there is a bit more creative license taken with this season, it is still an entertaining and well-crafted crime caper that is a worthy companion to season 1." A fifth fan added: "I wasn't sure what to expect but the series was excellent, edge of seat stuff. While the plot twists can be somewhat convoluted, it all comes together in a great synchronous ending. Brilliantly acted and some well constructed filming. Well worth your time."
All episodes of The Gold are available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer, or can be purchased via Prime Video and Apple TV.
