Protection on ITV is set to be one of the most talked-about British crime dramas of 2024. With six episodes, this show, created and written by Kris Mrksa (The Slap, Requiem) delves into the murky and morally gray world of witness protection. The show, which is led by Siobhan Finneran, promises an interesting story and a complex look at a system that is often made fun of in pop culture. The show was filmed in the northwest of England, which has both beautiful and dangerous places that add to the show’s realistic plot.
“The Story of Protection”
Detective Inspector Liz Nyles (Siobhan Finneran), a seasoned witness protection officer who gets caught up in a web of betrayal and plots, is at the center of Protection. At the start of the story, there is a shocking breach at a safe house—complete with a shooting and the mysterious presence of a coworker Liz was seeing romantically. Because of this tragedy, a chain of events happens that forces Liz to deal with corruption in her unit which puts her witnesses’ safety and the team’s reputation at risk.
Liz is trying to find the truth, but she has to deal with a morally murky world where criminals are often the ones being protected. Liz’s mission to reveal the plot tests her limits, loyalty, and values as she juggles her personal life with her job as a police officer.
Where Was ITV’s Thriller Protection Filmed?
The filming for Protection took place in real places from July to September 2023, which fit with the show’s dark tone. Here is a list of the main places where movies are shot:
Liverpool, England
Many of the productions took place in and around Liverpool. The mix of old buildings and new developments in the city’s urban landscape made for the perfect setting for the show’s intense drama. The Liverpool Film Office was very important to the production and made sure that the show’s dark tone matched its visuals.
The cast, which included Siobhan Finneran and Katherine Kelly— was often seen in important places like the Georgian Quarter and the busy docks in Liverpool. When talking about Liverpool, Finneran said:
“Liverpool has an incredible energy. It’s the ideal city for a story like Protection — full of character and contrasts.”
Wirral towns: Birkenhead
A nearby town called Birkenhead was very important to Protection. Its industrial, quieter streets were very different from Liverpool’s busy ones, which drew attention to the show’s themes of privacy and being alone. Several scenes were shot in nearby housing projects and abandoned buildings, which added to the gritty realism of the situation.
Runcorn, Cheshire
One of the most interesting places was Runcorn Shopping City, a huge shopping center where many important scenes took place. Dramatic events happened in parking lots and even an arcade while this location was being filmed. Representative for Weaver Vale, Mike Amesbury, was able to watch the filming.
Kris Mrksa, the author, talked about what inspired him to write the series.
“The murky world of witness protection, where even criminals are sheltered to serve a greater purpose—was the perfect context for exploring thorny moral questions. Working with such a —talented cast and crew has been an absolute privilege.”
Protection TV Series Cast
The cast of the ITV crime drama Protection is led by a great group of actors who include both established stars and up-and-coming stars. Here is a full list of everyone who plays a part in this exciting show:
Main Cast:
Siobhan Finneran as Detective Inspector Liz Nyles
Finneran, who is known for her roles in Happy Valley, Time and Downton Abbey, plays DI Liz Nyles, a witness protection officer who is involved in a major breach. Nyles is complicated and determined.
Kelly as Katherine as DS Ellen Lewis
Kelly, a talented officer and Liz’s coworker who is known for her roles in Mr. Bates vs. the Post Office and The Long Shadow.
With Barry Ward as DS Mike Collier
Ward (Bad Sisters, The End of the F**ing World*), a cop who works hard, is a key figure in the investigation.
• Andrew Knott as Detective Sergeant Tom Bray
• Chaneil Kular as PC Ravi Patel
• Tom Christian as PC Adam Frost
• Ian Pirie as Superintendent Malcolm Finch
• Anthony Flanagan as DI James Carter
Supporting Cast:
• Nadine Marshall as Dr. Elaine Ward
• David Hayman as Henry Quinn
• Nichola Burley as DCI Harriet Banks
• Akiya Henry as PC Fiona Bailey
Special Appearances:
• Charlotte Riley as Alice Monroe
The crime thriller on ITV called Protection is more than just another crime show. It’s also about trust, betrayal, and how the lines between right and wrong aren’t always clear. When it premieres on BritBox on December 29, 2024, the show is sure to captivate viewers with its captivating plot, outstanding performances and real-life filming locations.
