Bodyguard
Official Trailer
Plot Summary
War veteran David Budd (Richard Madden), a troubled but highly skilled Principal Protection Officer in London's Metropolitan Police, is assigned to protect controversial Home Secretary Julia Montague (Keeley Hawes). As Budd becomes entangled in a complex web of political intrigue and personal trauma, his loyalties are torn between his duty, his beliefs, and his growing attraction to the politician he's sworn to protect - leading to shocking consequences that threaten to destabilize the British government.
Why You Should Watch
- Richard Madden's Golden Globe-winning performance
- One of the most intense opening episodes in TV history
- Masterclass in sustained tension from "Line of Duty" creator
- Timely exploration of terrorism and political manipulation
- Shocking mid-season twist that broke viewing records
Main Cast
Review
"Bodyguard" delivers six hours of relentlessly tense television that reinvented the political thriller. Richard Madden's layered performance as the PTSD-afflicted bodyguard anchors a story that masterfully balances personal drama with large-scale conspiracy. The series' famous 20-minute opening sequence on a hijacked train sets the tone for what follows - meticulous plotting, shocking twists, and some of the most nerve-wracking suspense scenes in recent memory. While the final episode strains credibility slightly, the journey remains utterly compelling, with Keeley Hawes' steely politician providing the perfect foil to Madden's conflicted protector.
Behind the Scenes
- The train sequence took 12 days to film
- Richard Madden trained with real PPOs (Personal Protection Officers)
- Jed Mercurio wrote the role specifically for Keeley Hawes
- Final episode drew 17.1 million UK viewers - BBC's highest since 2008
Memorable Moments
"I'm the one who stands between the bullet and you."
"You can't protect someone from themselves."
Fan Reactions
- "That sniper scene had me holding my breath for 10 straight minutes"
- "Episode 4's twist broke the internet in Britain"
- "Madden deserves every award for the panic attack scene alone"
Critical Reception
- Won Golden Globe for Best Actor - Drama (Richard Madden)
- 93% Rotten Tomatoes score praising its "white-knuckle tension"
- BAFTA TV Award for Best Drama Series (2019)
- Most-watched BBC drama since 2008 with 17.1 million viewers
Episode Guide
- "Episode 1" - The iconic train hostage opening sequence.
- "Episode 2" - Budd begins protecting Home Secretary Montague.
- "Episode 4" - Shocking assassination changes everything.
- "Episode 6" - Explosive finale with rooftop standoff.
