For fans of British crime dramas, the genre is brimming with iconic series such as Line of Duty, Broadchurch, and Prime Suspect. However, a new contender has emerged that critics and audiences alike are hailing as superior: Bodyguard, created by Jed Mercurio, the mastermind behind Line of Duty itself.
Originally airing on BBC One in 2018, Bodyguard is a political thriller crime drama that captivated viewers from its first episode. It achieved the highest viewing figures for a new BBC drama in the multichannel era and recorded the largest BBC audience since 2008. The six-episode limited series earned two Golden Globe and two Primetime Emmy nominations, with star Richard Madden winning the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Television Series Drama.
The series follows Police Sergeant David Budd, a British Army veteran struggling with PTSD, who is assigned to protect Home Secretary Julia Montague, a controversial politician. The official synopsis describes Budd as 'volatile' and 'torn between his beliefs and his duty to protect,' as he grapples with his own psychological scars and Montague's invasive surveillance policies.
Bodyguard boasts a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its gripping narrative and outstanding performances. One reviewer called it 'a magnificent police drama,' while another described it as 'pure, can't-take-your-eyes-away entertainment.' Audience feedback has been equally enthusiastic, with one viewer calling it 'a rare gem in today's cinematic apocalypse.'
With its intense storytelling and compelling lead performance, Bodyguard is available to stream on Netflix, offering six hours of edge-of-your-seat television that rivals the best of the genre.
