The brand new crime series Protection premiered on ITV this week, quickly drawing viewers with its gripping narrative and stellar cast. Lead by Siobhan Finneran, known for her roles in ITV's Benidorm and BBC's Happy Valley, the show explores the dark side of crime and corruption through the lens of witness protection.
Finneran plays Detective Inspector Liz Nyles, who finds herself embroiled not only in the tumultuous world of crime but also personal entanglements. Barry Ward, renowned for his performances in Bad Sisters and White Lines, stars as DS Paul Brandice, Nyles's junior colleague with whom she begins a secret affair. This relationship adds layers to the storyline, showcasing the vulnerabilities and moral dilemmas faced by those within the police force.
Protection premiered on Sunday evening, March 16, 2025, at 9 PM on ITV1, with simultaneous streaming on ITVX. The six-part series delves deep, not just showcasing the thrilling aspects of crime stories but also the emotional and ethical challenges experienced by those involved. The first episode has already received positive feedback, with viewers praising its intensity and relevance.
Ward's portrayal of DS Paul Brandice highlights his ability to navigate complex characters, which he has perfected over his extensive career. Starting from his acting debut at age 14, where he starred alongside notable actors in the miniseries Family, Ward has garnered significant experience on both the big and small screens.
After appearing on several popular dramas, including BBC's Silent Witness and The Fall, he has managed to carve out his niche within the industry. Familiar to many fans from Dating Amber and his role as Detective Inspector Fergal Loftus on Bad Sisters, this new role pushes his boundaries and displays his versatility.
Fans of the show can anticipate Episode 2, titled Don't Trust Anyone, which airs on March 17, 2025, at 9 PM. Subsequent episodes will roll out weekly, with the third episode titled Pressure scheduled for March 23. For those preferring to binge-watch, all episodes will be available on ITVX following their initial broadcast.
Interestingly, the series has also made remarkable progress since its launch, which initially took place on BritBox for viewers in the United States and Canada back on December 29, 2024. The series attracted attention even before its UK airing, building anticipation among audiences.
Andrew Knott joins the formidable cast, playing DI Richard Bewley. With experience from renowned shows like Gavin and Stacey, where he played Dirtbox, Knott adds another layer of talent to the gripping narrative of Protection. He reiterated the show's intense focus on the realities surrounding witness protection, making it not just another crime drama but, rather, a tale reflecting socio-ethical dilemmas.
This premiere is significant as it engages with themes of trust, loyalty, and the consequences of crime, which resonate on multiple levels with contemporary societal issues. Viewers find themselves questioning the efficacy and morality of the witness protection system as they watch the show unravel.
Barry Ward, recently speaking with the Irish Independent, commented on the personal challenges of being part of such public narratives. He stated, "I don't see any benefit whatsoever from playing [the celebrity game]." His perspectives shed light on the tension between public life and personal integrity, emphasizing his desire to keep the focus on his work rather than personal controversies.
His private life, though typically kept under wraps, becomes entwined with public speculation. Reports suggest he is rumored to be dating production manager Laura Kavanaagh, with whom he shares a son. Despite the spotlight, Ward maintains the principle of avoiding unnecessary public drama, citing the importance of mystique for actors.
The anticipation for future episodes remains high, unraveling not just personal stories but broader narratives about the world of law and crime. With multiple character arcs expected to evolve, viewers are poised for revelations whether through intense revelations or plot twists.
The first season of Protection, currently airing, promises to provoke thought and spark conversations surrounding crime, trust, and the ever-evolving human experience within these tumultuous settings. It raises the question: what happens when the systems intended to protect falter? Such questions linger as audiences settle down each week, eager to see how each character navigates their treacherous waters.
