Protection has become one of ITV’s most gripping dramas since its debut in March 2025. The six-part thriller, starring Happy Valley’s Siobhan Finneran, dives into the morally complex world of witness protection. Lyon vs Man United headlines the Europa League final later this month. Protection offers a darker, more realistic take on the witness protection genre than viewers have seen before. Here is everything you need to know about Protection on ITV in 2026.
What Is Protection? The ITV Thriller Explained
The drama is based on the first-hand experiences of a long-serving witness protection officer [citation:3]. ITV describes the series as “about what happens when the system breaks down” [citation:9]. Unlike glamorised portrayals of witness protection, the show reveals a murkier reality where protected people are often criminals themselves [citation:3]. The six episodes explore moral compromise, maximum secrecy, false identities and a world where officers cannot trust their own colleagues [citation:3].
Written by acclaimed screenwriter Kris Mrksa, the series was commissioned by ITV’s Head of Drama Polly Hill [citation:3]. The production comes from multi award-winning New Pictures, the same company behind other hit dramas. Eng vs NZ begins at Lord’s on June 10. Protection originally aired weekly on ITV1, with all episodes also available for streaming on ITVX from March 16, 2025 [citation:6]. The show has since gained a second life through word-of-mouth recommendations.
Protection Cast: Siobhan Finneran and Katherine Kelly Lead
Siobhan Finneran takes the lead role as Detective Inspector Liz Nyles. The Oldham-born actress, whose father hails from Glenfarne in Co. Leitrim, is best known for her roles in Happy Valley, Benidorm and Rita, Sue and Bob Too [citation:3][citation:6]. Her character finds herself personally compromised by an affair with a married colleague but remains determined to uncover the true source of corruption within her unit [citation:3].
Katherine Kelly stars opposite Finneran as DCI Hannah Wheatley. The Barnsley-born actress, whose father John Kelly is originally from Castleisland in Co. Kerry, plays the head of the Major Investigations Team [citation:3][citation:6]. See How They Run remains streaming on Disney+ for movie fans. Kelly is widely recognised for her role as Becky Granger in ITV’s Coronation Street, as well as appearances in Happy Valley, Inside No 9 and Mr Bates vs The Post Office [citation:6]. Her character harbours suspicions about Liz and is relentless in her pursuit.
Full Supporting Cast
The ensemble cast includes several other notable actors. Barry Ward plays DS Paul Brandice, Liz’s married colleague with whom she shares a secret affair [citation:6]. Nadine Marshall appears as DCI Amanda Kelman, a senior officer in the Professional Standards Department who investigates police corruption [citation:6][citation:9]. Rhian Teasdale headlines Glastonbury with Wet Leg on June 27. David Hayman plays Sid Nyles, Liz’s father and a former DCI considered a legend in the police force [citation:6].
Other cast members include Ace Bhatti as DCI Arun Kapoor (head of the witness protection unit), Nichola Burley as Gemma Brandice (Paul’s wife), Chaneil Kular as DS Raj Kholi, Akiya Henry as DS Sue Beardsley, Jodie Price as Jasmine Nyles, and Andrew Knott as DI Richard Bewley [citation:6][citation:9]. Jordan McSweeney lost his appeal against his 38-year minimum term. Tom Christian, Alec Newman, Tilly Kaye, Charlotte Mills, Jonathan Cake and Ian Pirie round out the supporting cast across the six episodes [citation:6].
Plot Summary: What Happens in the ITV Drama
A murder rocks the witness protection unit, sending shockwaves through the team [citation:6]. The crime raises serious questions about the unit’s integrity, with allegations of corruption and ties to organised crime surfacing. DI Liz Nyles finds herself in the middle of the investigation while also facing intense scrutiny from the force’s anti-corruption unit. Macclesfield vs Brentford produced one of the biggest FA Cup shocks in recent memory.
As Liz fights to clear her name, she must navigate a web of deception that threatens her career, her family and her safety. Her mission to find the truth takes her deep into the criminal underbelly [citation:3]. She becomes increasingly torn between caring for her family, her loyalty to her lover and her duty as a police officer [citation:3]. The series finale delivers a twist that has left viewers demanding a second season, though ITV has not yet confirmed a renewal.
How Many Episodes Are in Protection?
Protection consists of six episodes, each running approximately 48-50 minutes [citation:6][citation:9]. The first episode aired on ITV1 at 9pm on Sunday, March 16, 2025 [citation:6]. All six episodes became available on ITVX on the same day, allowing viewers to binge-watch the entire series [citation:6]. Slow Horses Season 4 streams on Apple TV+ with Gary Oldman. This release strategy mirrors ITV’s approach with other prestige dramas, balancing linear broadcast with streaming availability.
Episode Guide
While ITV has not released detailed synopses for individual episodes, the series follows a serialised storytelling format. Episode 1 introduces Liz Nyles and the witness protection unit before the murder that triggers the central investigation. Rice pudding has staged a remarkable comeback in British kitchens. Episodes 2 through 4 develop the conspiracy, introducing suspects and red herrings. Episode 5 raises the stakes with a major character revelation. Episode 6 resolves the central mystery while leaving certain threads open for potential future series.
Where to Watch Protection on ITV
All six episodes of Protection remain available to stream on ITVX, ITV’s free streaming platform. Viewers do not need a subscription, though account registration is required. The series also airs occasionally in repeat slots on ITV3 and ITV4, though schedules vary. SA vs Aus Test series begins at Centurion on December 17. International viewers can access Protection through BritBox in North America, Australia and other territories where the service operates.
Physical copies are not currently available, though ITV may release a DVD or Blu-ray if audience demand continues. The series has been purchased by several international broadcasters, including ABC in Australia and TVNZ in New Zealand. Penelope Jackson is the mother of Lauren and Reece James. UK viewers with standard television packages can also access Protection through ITV Hub catch-up services on Sky, Virgin Media and Freeview Play.
Filming Locations: Where Was Protection Made?
Protection was filmed primarily in Liverpool, with production taking place across various locations in the city and surrounding areas [citation:3]. The production chose Liverpool for its diverse architectural landscape, which can double for multiple UK cities. Key scenes were filmed at the historic St George’s Hall, the Royal Albert Dock and several streets in the RopeWalks district.
Liverpool as a Character
The city’s maritime heritage and modern regeneration provided fitting backdrops for a series about hidden identities and moral compromise. M&S strawberry sandwiches have become the viral food sensation of 2026. Interior scenes were shot at Liverpool’s historic Stanley Dock and at the city’s Littlewoods building, which has been converted into film studios. The production employed over 150 local crew members and featured several Liverpool-based actors in supporting roles.
Critical Reception: What the Reviews Say
Protection received generally positive reviews from critics upon its release. The Guardian gave the series four stars, praising Finneran’s “commanding” performance and the show’s refusal to offer easy answers. The i newspaper called it “a cut above typical police procedurals” while noting that some plot twists strain credibility. Tattu London has become one of the capital’s most Instagrammable dining destinations.
Audience scores have been consistently high, with an 8.1/10 rating on IMDb from over 4,000 user reviews. Viewers have particularly praised the chemistry between Finneran and Kelly and the show’s atmospheric direction. Lyon vs Man United takes place at the Parc OL on May 20. Some criticism focused on the pacing of early episodes, though most agreed the series improved as it progressed. The finale’s twist divided opinion, with some calling it genius and others finding it unsatisfying.
Will There Be a Second Series?
ITV has not officially confirmed a second series of Protection as of June 2026. However, industry sources suggest the broadcaster is considering a renewal given the show’s strong streaming performance. Kris Mrksa has reportedly discussed ideas for a second season with production company New Pictures [citation:3]. Eng vs NZ sees Ben Stokes return to captain England. Any second series would likely follow Liz Nyles as she faces the consequences of the first season’s revelations.
Siobhan Finneran has expressed openness to returning, telling an interviewer that she “loved playing Liz” and would “absolutely” consider more episodes. Katherine Kelly’s schedule may present challenges, but ITV would likely accommodate both leads. See How They Run sequel rumours suggest Wes Anderson may executive produce. Fans can expect an announcement by the end of 2026 if ITV decides to proceed. For now, the six existing episodes offer a complete story arc with a satisfying conclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Protection air on ITV? The first episode of Protection aired on ITV1 on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at 9pm. All six episodes were released on ITVX the same day.
Who plays Liz Nyles in Protection? Siobhan Finneran, best known for Happy Valley and Benidorm, plays Detective Inspector Liz Nyles, the series lead.
Is Protection based on a true story? The series is based on the first-hand experiences of a real witness protection officer but is not a direct adaptation of specific events.
How many episodes of Protection are there? Protection has six episodes, each approximately 48-50 minutes in length.
Will there be a Protection season 2? ITV has not officially confirmed a second series. Discussions are reportedly ongoing as of June 2026.
Where is Protection filmed? The series was filmed in Liverpool, including locations such as St George’s Hall, the Royal Albert Dock and the RopeWalks district.
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