BBC iPlayer's six-part crime thriller Virdee has been named the "best crime drama" of the moment by Stylist, which highlighted the series in its listing of "The best British crime dramas to binge-watch across BBC, ITV, Netflix and more".
Bradford-set series from A A Dhand
Released last year, Virdee stars Staz Nair as Detective Harry Virdee and was adapted by A A Dhand from his own Bradford-set crime novel series. Produced by Magical Society for BBC One and BBC iPlayer, the show was first broadcast in the UK on 10 February 2025.
The six-part drama blends family drama, crime and moral dilemmas as Detective Harry Virdee navigates a complex personal life and family estrangement caused by his interfaith marriage. At the same time, he faces a challenging case involving a killer targeting the local Asian community and a brewing gang war. As Harry's world becomes increasingly intertwined with the criminal underworld, he is forced to consider an alliance with his outlaw brother-in-law.
What viewers are saying on IMDb
Fans have shared their verdicts on IMDb. One wrote: "I wasn't sure after the first episode, but the second had me hooked. Strong cast led by Staz Nair, who is a commanding force on screen in the title role of Harry Virdee. All the supporting cast are also very good. The storyline is compelling, as are the side stories about the characters' personal lives."
The same reviewer added: "The overall tone, characters and story really reminded me of Luther, which is no bad thing."
The reviewer also noted: "The setting in the Asian community in Bradford offers something refreshingly different and highlights another side to British life not often seen on TV. And as someone not part of that community, I also found it educational."
Another said it was "definitely worth the watch" and added: "Don't judge in the first episode. Keep watching, as it does take a little while to get into the characters and the story, then before you know it, you are drawn in, and you get taken on a great journey. Raw and gritty, the tension builds up nicely, and it's full of action and lots of thrills.
"It also has some very emotional and thought-provoking scenes, giving a good balance and understanding of the characters. Feel that the main actor grew into his character, and he gave a stellar performance. The main actors are cast really well, and all the interactions between them set up the foundations of the storyline."
Another wrote: "Absolutely brilliant! Thoroughly enjoyed it and was sitting at the end of my seat. Couldn't wait for the weekly watch, but had to binge-watch it on iPlayer! The story is very well written and complete, and the ending leaves it very nicely set up for the next series, and I can't wait!"
Where to watch Virdee
Virdee is available to stream now on BBC iPlayer.
