Siobhan Finneran, known for her standout roles in Happy Valley, Downton Abbey, and Benidorm, takes centre stage in ITV’s latest gripping drama, Protection. The six-part series delves into the complex world of witness protection, corruption, and personal turmoil. Here are five key things you need to know about Protection and Finneran’s role in it.

1. Siobhan Finneran Takes the Lead as DI Liz Nyles

For the first time in her decades-long career, Finneran takes on a leading role in a TV drama. She plays Detective Inspector Liz Nyles, a seasoned officer in the witness protection unit whose professional and personal lives begin to unravel. Her portrayal of a dedicated but flawed officer navigating corruption and high-stakes decisions has been widely praised. Critics have noted that this milestone reflects Finneran’s versatility as an actress and her ability to command a series with ease.

2. A Gritty Look at the Realities of Witness Protection

Unlike conventional police procedurals, Protection sheds light on the often-overlooked complexities of the witness protection unit. The series follows DI Nyles as she deals with a major security breach, forcing her to confront corruption within the system while struggling with the fallout from a personal affair that threatens her career. The Independent describes it as a “suspenseful and morally intricate drama” that explores the emotional cost of working in law enforcement.

3. A Stellar Supporting Cast Enhances the Drama

Finneran is joined by a strong ensemble cast, including Katherine Kelly (Mr Selfridge, Liar) as DCI Hannah Wheatley and Nadine Marshall (Trigger Point, Small Axe) as DCI Amanda Kelman. Their characters bring additional layers of tension, particularly as internal investigations into corruption expose deep-seated conflicts within the department. The dynamics between these characters contribute to the series’ gripping narrative.

4. Critical and Audience Reception

The show has received mixed but largely positive reviews. The Guardian hails it as a “nail-biting crime drama,” with Finneran’s performance singled out as “flawed but formidable.” However, Radio Times offers a more cautious perspective, giving it three out of five stars, noting that while the stakes are high and the character work is compelling, some plot developments feel contrived. Audience reactions have also varied—while many praise the fresh take on crime drama, some viewers have found certain twists predictable or frustrating.

5. Where and When to Watch Protection

Filmed across the North West of England, including Liverpool, Runcorn, and the Wirral, Protection brings a gritty authenticity to its storytelling. The series premiered on ITV1 on 16th March 2025, with episodes airing weekly. For those eager to binge-watch, all six episodes are available to stream on ITVX.

Protection offers a compelling look at the murky world of witness protection, brought to life by Siobhan Finneran’s commanding lead performance. While some critics feel it treads familiar ground within the British crime drama genre, its unique focus and strong character work make it a standout addition to ITV’s lineup. With Finneran finally getting the leading role she deserves, Protection is a must-watch for fans of intense, character-driven thrillers.