BBC viewers have expressed frustration over the network's latest crime drama, 'The Cage', with many complaining about its confusing time setting. The first episode aired on Sunday night (April 26) and featured Sheridan Smith and Michael Socha as casino workers who discover they are both stealing from the safe.
Within minutes of the show starting, viewers took to X to point out anachronisms. One scene showed a character using a smartphone, while another featured an old computer monitor that appeared to be from the 1990s. This led to widespread confusion about when the drama was supposed to be set.
One viewer wrote: 'I've given up. I couldn't make it through the first episode. I usually like Sheridan Smith, but this is a mess, like you couldn't make out when it's supposed to be set.' Another commented: 'What's with the computer monitor from 1992?' A third added: 'When is this supposed to be? 02 Fiat, 80s music, smartphones?'
Despite the criticism, some viewers praised the show for getting straight into the action. One person said: '#TheCage this drama is starting straight into the plot - no wasting time with characterisation.'
Actress Sheridan Smith, who plays Leanne Chapel, expressed hope that viewers would root for her character. She told the BBC: 'I love getting to play complicated, multifaceted people. Hopefully, because of what Leanne's going through, you're rooting for her.'
