The gritty BBC police drama Cuffs has found a new lease of life after being added to Netflix, introducing the 2015 series to a fresh audience. The show, which follows frontline officers in Brighton and Sussex, was axed after just one season despite a fan-led campaign to save it.
From Soap Star to PC Moretti
At the heart of the series is actor Alex Carter, who portrays the out-of-shape but proud Italian heritage PC Lino Moretti. The 43-year-old from Oldham is best known to UK audiences for his long-running soap roles. He first joined Hollyoaks in the early Noughties as Lee Hunter, staying for four years before his character departed for a world tour.
His most prominent role came in 2006 when he joined the cast of Emmerdale as Jamie Hope, the eldest son of Bob Hope. Carter initially left the soap in 2005, citing a desire for more free time, but returned after a five-year hiatus. He then announced his permanent departure from Emmerdale in 2010 after four years, telling BBC 6 Music he wanted to pursue new projects and was frustrated with his reduced workload.
A Life Beyond Acting: Football and Family
Away from the screen, Carter is a lifelong fan of Oldham Athletic A.F.C. This passion led him to present the Saturday sports show Latics Live on The Revolution radio station between 2008 and 2011.
In a lesser-known family connection, Alex has a famous brother. Bruce Carter is a founding member of the Manchester rock band The Whip. Both brothers attended the Blue Coat School in Oldham. The Whip gained significant exposure when their track Trash was used in a national TV ad campaign for Coors Light Beer. They also featured on the soundtrack for the popular EA Sports video game FIFA 09.
Career After Cuffs and the Show's Legacy
Following the cancellation of Cuffs in 2015, which was met with criticism from its cast, Carter has continued to work in television. His most recent role was as Jeff in the comedy series So Awkward Academy.
The arrival of the single-season drama on Netflix has reignited interest in the show and its ensemble cast. For fans of British crime drama and Alex Carter's previous work, it offers a chance to see the actor in a different light, far from the Yorkshire Dales or Chester.
