The BBC’s Bodyguard series has been picked up by Netflix. It will premier on that platform on October 24. If my Twitter feed out of the UK is any indication (and it’s usually quite accurate), Bodyguard is among the most compelling shows to come along in quite a while.
According to Deadline, the series launched in the UK with the highest viewership in over a decade.
The 6 episode series stars Richard Madden as the bodyguard with Keeley Hawes playing the Home Secretary he is assigned to protect. Here’s the series synopsis, “Set in and around the corridors of power, Bodyguard tells the fictional story of David Budd, a heroic but volatile war veteran now working as a Specialist Protection Officer for the Royalty and Specialist Protection Branch of London’s Metropolitan Police Service. When he is assigned to protect the ambitious and powerful Home Secretary Julia Montague, whose politics stand for everything he despises, Budd finds himself torn between his duty and beliefs. Responsible for her safety, is he actually her biggest threat?”
Among many others appearing are Sophie Rundle, Vincent Franklin, Paul Ready, Nicholas Gleaves, Pippa Haywood, and Gina McKee. The series was created, written and executive produced by Jed Mercurio.
So far there’s only been one 6 episode series of Bodyguard, but the gossip in the UK press is that the purchase of the distribution rights by Netflix means there’s a good chance for another series.
The Word Via Twitter
Completely taken by @BBC’s #Bodyguard. Loving the Byzantine plot. Whom do I trust? What is really going on? Stellar performances by @Misskeeleyhawes and @_richardmadden. Just more proof that Brits know how to make amazing TV. pic.twitter.com/tDhyqHi9TW
— Strictly Geeking (@StrictlyGeekin5) September 19, 2018
Just discovered #KillingEve and considering not sleeping til I finish the entire series. What with this and #Bodyguard, TV hasn’t been this good since #HappyValley #TheFall and #Broadchurch were on 📺
— Matt (@themattmak) September 19, 2018
@jed_mercurio loving that you gave nothing away about #Bodyguard on @thismorning . Part of the fun of watching this series is the agony of trying to work out what’s what .
— angela thompson📺🎥🎬🎼🎧📚 (@angelathompson5) September 19, 2018