The BBC iPlayer has long been a staple for viewers in the UK, offering a wide range of programming from drama to comedy, documentaries, and everything in between. Known for its high-quality productions, the iPlayer serves as a window into some of the best British television has to offer. If you’re looking for something new to watch or simply want to explore the wealth of content on the platform, you’re in the right place!
Here are five standout shows on BBC iPlayer that you should definitely add to your watchlist. Though, one thing that you should get to about just now is that BBC iPlayer is only available in UK and to watch BBC iPlayer in India, USA, Australia, Canada or anywhere else you will require a VPN.
1. Killing Eve – A Thrilling Cat-and-Mouse Spy Drama
If you haven’t yet experienced the phenomenon that is Killing Eve, now is the time to dive in. This stylish and suspenseful spy thriller, based on the Villanelle series by Luke Jennings, revolves around the complex relationship between Eve Polastri (played by Sandra Oh), a British intelligence officer, and Villanelle (Jodie Comer), a psychopathic assassin.
What makes Killing Eve so captivating isn’t just the nail-biting plot; it’s the interplay between the two lead characters. Sandra Oh’s portrayal of Eve is intense and vulnerable, while Jodie Comer’s Villanelle is a fascinating blend of menace and dark humor. The show expertly balances thrilling action with moments of sharp wit, making it an addictive watch.
Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or gripping drama with a touch of dark comedy, Killing Eve delivers on all fronts. Plus, with multiple seasons available on BBC iPlayer, it’s easy to binge-watch your way through this compelling series.
2. The Trial of Christine Keeler – A Real-Life Scandal Revisited
For fans of true crime and historical drama, The Trial of Christine Keeler is a must-watch. This gripping drama is based on the real-life events surrounding the 1960s Profumo Affair, which rocked the British government and became one of the biggest political scandals in UK history.
Christine Keeler (played by Sophie Cookson) was a young model who became embroiled in an affair with British Secretary of State for War John Profumo, which led to a scandal involving espionage, government corruption, and public scandal. The series follows Keeler’s experiences as she navigates her life amid intense media scrutiny and political fallout.
The show is brilliantly acted and beautifully crafted, with the period setting capturing the social and political turmoil of the 1960s. The Trial of Christine Keeler is not just a historical drama; it’s an exploration of power, privilege, and the treatment of women in a patriarchal society.
3. Doctor Who – Timeless Sci-Fi Adventure
If there’s one show that defines British television, it’s Doctor Who. The iconic sci-fi series has been a beloved staple of the BBC for decades, with its ability to regenerate itself into fresh storylines and new characters. The latest incarnation, featuring Jodie Whittaker as the Thirteenth Doctor, has revitalized the series for a new generation of viewers.
Doctor Who follows the adventures of the Doctor, an eccentric and enigmatic alien Time Lord who travels through time and space in the TARDIS, a time machine that looks like a blue British police box. Each episode features a unique adventure, filled with thrilling encounters with monsters, aliens, and paradoxes, all wrapped in the Doctor’s signature wit and charm.
With its rich legacy and wide-ranging fanbase, Doctor Who offers something for everyone—whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the series. BBC iPlayer hosts a selection of recent episodes, making it easy to catch up on the latest adventures of the Doctor.
4. Fleabag – Dark Comedy with a Heart
Fleabag is a brilliant and boundary-pushing comedy-drama that has taken the world by storm. Created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, this show follows the life of an unnamed woman (referred to simply as Fleabag) as she grapples with grief, love, and the messiness of life in London.
The show’s distinctive voice, breaking the fourth wall with Fleabag’s direct addresses to the camera, provides a raw and witty look at the character’s inner thoughts. Waller-Bridge’s writing is sharp, filled with humor and heartbreak in equal measure. Fleabag manages to combine dark humor with profound emotional depth, making it a unique and refreshing watch.
Both seasons of Fleabag are available on BBC iPlayer, and if you haven’t already watched this critically acclaimed show, now is the perfect time to experience its blend of razor-sharp wit and genuine heartache.
5. Line of Duty – Police Procedural at Its Best
If you’re a fan of intense police procedurals that keep you on the edge of your seat, Line of Duty is a must-watch. This gripping series, created by Jed Mercurio, follows the work of AC-12, a special anti-corruption unit in the police force, as they investigate corrupt officers within the ranks. Each season centers around a new case, filled with twists, turns, and shocking revelations.
What sets Line of Duty apart from other police dramas is its smart, intricate plotting. The series is filled with red herrings, making each episode a guessing game of who is truly corrupt and who can be trusted. The tension builds with every season, as the characters’ personal lives and professional careers intertwine in a web of secrets and lies.
With six seasons currently available on BBC iPlayer, Line of Duty has earned a reputation as one of the best British crime dramas in recent years, and it’s no surprise that it has garnered an international fanbase. If you enjoy gripping mysteries and complex characters, Line of Duty will quickly become your next obsession.
Why BBC iPlayer Is the Go-To Platform for British TV
BBC iPlayer is home to some of the best television programming in the UK, offering a variety of genres that appeal to all tastes. Whether you’re into crime dramas, historical pieces, sci-fi, or comedy, iPlayer has it all. The best part? Many of these shows are available for free, making it a highly accessible platform for viewers.
For international viewers, accessing BBC iPlayer can be tricky due to geo-restrictions. However, VPN services like OysterVPN can help bypass these limitations, allowing fans around the world to watch these British shows without interruption.
Conclusion
BBC iPlayer is an essential platform for anyone who loves high-quality, thought-provoking television. The five shows listed above—Killing Eve, The Trial of Christine Keeler, Doctor Who, Fleabag, and Line of Duty—are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the outstanding content available on iPlayer. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling drama, a heartfelt comedy, or a mind-bending sci-fi adventure, there’s something for everyone.
So, grab your remote, open up BBC iPlayer, and dive into these must-watch shows that you won’t want to miss. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
