In the ever-evolving landscape of British crime drama, the ITV series Protection has emerged as a gripping new contender, attracting fan comparisons to the iconic Line of Duty. The series, which made its debut on March 16, 2025, stars Siobhan Finneran as DI Liz Nyles, a witness protection officer navigating the treacherous waters of law enforcement while her personal life spirals into chaos.
Set against the backdrop of Liverpool, Protection follows DI Nyles as she tries to safeguard reformed gangster Jimmy McLennan (played by Kris Hitchen) and his family while grappling with her complex home life, which includes a challenging ex-husband, a teenage daughter, and an ailing father. Liz’s life takes a darker turn when a murder occurs at one of her safe houses, leading to questions about potential corruption within her unit.
As the plot unfolds, DI Nyles finds herself at the center of an investigation questioning her integrity and role in the violent incidents surrounding her. Finneran's portrayal of Liz Nyles has garnered acclaim, evoking the intense emotional stakes that come with her profession and personal dilemmas.
“The story offers a blend of police procedural elements with psychological depth,” said Kris Mrksa, the series creator known for White House Farm. He explained that while the series is not based on any single true story, it draws inspiration from conversations with an actual former witness protection officer, providing a layer of authenticity to the narrative.
“The day-to-day realities of witness protection involve secrecy and the danger of exposure, lending it a le Carré-esque feel, far beyond standard law enforcement drama,” he added.
The cast of Protection is impressive, with familiar faces including Katherine Kelly as DCI Hannah Wheatley and Nadine Marshall as DCI Amanda Kelman, both bringing additional depth and tension to their roles. As the drama unfolds, critiques emerge regarding the show’s pacing and plausibility. Some viewers have noted instances where character decisions seem questionable, such as DI Nyles taking a vulnerable young witness into her home.
Fans are being vocal about their opinions, with many praising the show's intense drama and suspense. One viewer remarked on social media, “Binge watched Protection and wasn't disappointed! It’s like Happy Valley meets Line of Duty, which makes for great drama!” Others responded similarly, commending the show for its engaging twists and strong performances.
However, feedback hasn't been universally positive. Viewers have pointed out moments that stretch believability, with one critic stating, “The little girl should have been taken out of the house covertly—she was a sitting target!” These critiques have muddied the waters, creating a divide among audiences about the show’s credibility.
Filming for Protection took place over the summer of 2023 across various locations in Liverpool and surrounding areas, including Ainsdale and Birkenhead, effectively capturing the gritty Northern England atmosphere that informs the series. The production team utilized well-known landmarks such as Arrowe Park Hospital and Runcorn Shopping City to enhance the visual storytelling.
The series, initially airing on ITV1, is also available to stream on ITVX, where all six episodes are accessible for viewers eager to catch up on the suspenseful journey of Liz Nyles and her complex case. Upcoming episodes are set to air weekly following the premiere, maintaining the suspense for viewers.
As fans eagerly anticipate further developments in the storyline, the critical landscape will likely continue to evolve. Weaving thoughts from audiences about pace and plot realism alongside high-stakes drama will be essential for the show’s future in the cutthroat realm of television crime dramas. While some viewers might find flaws in the story’s execution, there is no denying that Protection has quickly carved out its niche in the genre and became a talking point in British television.
Only time will tell if this new series will enjoy the lasting success of its predecessors, yet its ambitious attempt at combining personal dilemmas with police corruption is proving to resonate with viewers. As the story progresses, audiences will remain engaged—and undoubtedly continue to share their insights on social media.
