Bodyguard

Brace yourself, America  


​Bodyguard

 is now on Netflix

Forget Kevin Costner, Whitney Houston and a movie with an almost identical name. To describe Netflix’s latest UK import Bodyguard, I only need three words:
​intense, intense, intense.
Created by the brilliant Jed Mercurio (acclaimed writer of Line of Duty), this riveting new BBC TV drama stars Keeley Hawes (also from Line of Duty) and Richard Madden, who hubby immediately recognised from Game of Thrones.
With a storyline centered on political intrigue, terror threats, divided loyalties and numerous explosive twists, this series was a record-breaking success back home; more than 17 million Brits watched the final episode last August, giving the BBC its highest drama viewing figures of all time.
A word of warning, however. Now that Bodyguard can be streamed instantly on Netflix, binge-watching episodes 1 and 2 consecutively left me emotionally drained. This is gripping, nail-biting stuff. I strongly suggest several deep breaths and a spot of meditation between each of the six parts.
In my personal opinion, the only flaw is the casting of Pippa Haywood as a police commander. Despite my best efforts, I couldn’t help having flashbacks of her playing the comic but long-suffering wife of Gordon Brittas in The Brittas Empire circa 1992 (but that’s just me - don’t take any notice). She’s actually a fine actress and I really should know better. In any case, the fast-paced,
action-packed plot leaves little time for such frivolous distraction.
If you enjoy tension, shocking surprises and edge-of-your-seat suspense, you’ll love Bodyguard. Admittedly, you may need a lie-down in a darkened room after watching, but it's well worth the stress.
​Trust me.​