Sheridan Smith Announces Release Date for Liverpool-Based BBC Drama
Sheridan Smith has confirmed when her new BBC drama filmed in Liverpool will arrive on screens. The five-part series, created by BAFTA-nominated writer Tony Schumacher, centres on two casino workers who steal from the same safe.
Release details
The show begins on Sunday April 26 at 9pm on BBC One. The full series will also be released as a boxset on BBC iPlayer.
Premise and production
The Liverpool-based story follows Leanne, played by Sheridan Smith, and Matty, played by Michael Socha. Both characters discover they have been taking from the casino safe where they work.
Al Mackay directs the five-part thriller. Element Pictures produces the series for the BBC.
Cast and creative team
Alongside Smith and Socha, the cast includes Barry Sloane and Geraldine James. Anton Bibby, Freya Jones, Sophie Mensah and Abby Mavers also appear.
Tony Schumacher wrote and created the show. He is a BAFTA-nominated writer with previous credits including The Responder.
Comments from creators and the BBC
Schumacher said he was honoured to return to the BBC with this project. He praised the cast, the production team and the Liverpool setting.
The BBC Drama director, Ms Salt, described the series as character-driven and full of heart. She said viewers can expect a hugely entertaining drama.
Cast connection to Liverpool
Sheridan Smith, originally from Lincolnshire, said she has long felt embraced by Liverpool. She told Filmogaz.com at the Bolan’s Shoes premiere in 2023 that the city feels like home.
Smith has previously portrayed Cilla Black on television. She said locals always make her feel welcome when she visits.
Local engagement during filming
The cast and crew regularly visited the Paper Cup Coffee shop while filming in the city centre. The café is run by Michelle Langan and supports people experiencing homelessness.
The production left a thank-you card for the cafe team. The message expressed gratitude for keeping the crew going and called the initiative inspiring.
- Sheridan Smith — Leanne
- Michael Socha — Matty
- Barry Sloane
- Geraldine James
- Anton Bibby
- Freya Jones
- Sophie Mensah
- Abby Mavers
This Liverpool-based BBC drama adds a new, gritty entry to the broadcaster’s slate. Fans can mark the release date and plan to stream the boxset on iPlayer.
