Channel 5 is currently streaming a detective drama that viewers have declared utterly 'unmissable'. Starring Kristin Kreuk and Jay Ryan, Beauty and the Beast originally premiered in 2012 and proved a massive success, with fans describing themselves as 'obsessed' and branding it a 'must-watch'. The series is now available to stream for free on Channel 5, where it is drawing in an entirely new generation of fans.
The show centres on Catherine Chandler (Kristin Kreuk), who witnessed her mother's murder and narrowly escaped the same fate, saved by a mysterious figure — or perhaps something else entirely. Years later, she has rebuilt her life as a New York detective, but the haunting events of her past come rushing back when a case leads her straight to Vincent (Jay Ryan). He is a former soldier who was presumed dead in Afghanistan, yet remains very much alive, and Catherine soon realises there is far more to him than first appears. Upon uncovering his secret, she agrees to stay silent as he assists her in unearthing the truth behind her mother's death.
However, their alliance grows increasingly perilous as romantic feelings begin to develop between them. The chemistry between the leads has been praised as 'unreal' by fans.
'This show is the BOMB - no other show like it nor do I think there will be in this lifetime - epic romance, epic storyline, epic love,' one enthusiastic viewer wrote on review site Rotten Tomatoes. Another added: 'I started watching and was hooked before I finished the pilot.' One fan declared on Reddit: 'I was obsessed!! I loved the modern take they went with, it definitely was a refreshing change.'
One viewer described it as 'simply unmissable for anyone who loves a good romantic thriller'. On IMDb, a fan remarked: 'The story is complicated and interesting, directing and effects are good, and the series is very addictive.' Another commented: 'I think everyone should give this series a chance, and if you don't like it, that's fine, but I can't say this show is similar to anything else on TV. I love how different it is, and the entertainment factor is through the roof.'
'Maybe you don't completely fall in love with the first episode, but by the second, I'm sure you will be hooked!' pledged another fan. Beauty and the Beast, which also starred Austin Basis and Nina Lisandrello, launched in 2012 and ran for four series before concluding in 2016. The series is available on Channel 5.
