Tom Selleck’s “engrossing” crime procedural Blue Bloods is currently trending in the UK. The show, which debuted in 2010, follows Frank Reagan (Selleck), the police commissioner of New York and head of the Reagan clan. Frank must deal with the struggles of his high profile job, while also managing his family of determined law enforcement professionals (played by Donnie Wahlberg, Bridget Moynahan and Will Estes). Despite ending in 2024, Blue Bloods remains a popular streaming choice among UK viewers, currently sitting at number 5 on the list of top 10 shows on Paramount+.
The streaming service offers 11 out of the show’s 14 seasons, with more than 200 episodes available to binge right now. Blue Bloods season 1 holds an impressive 84% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, from 31 reviews. The show has been described as “an evocative family drama”, with critics praising “charismatic” performances of the cast.
“A bit square, but there’s a lot of meat on the family-dinner plate as police work, big-city politics and multigenerational dynamics combine for an engrossing drama, enhanced by Tom Selleck’s star wattage,” said TV Guide’s Matt Roush
“If it pulls off what it seems capable of doing, Blue Bloods should be both a good cop show and an evocative family drama. So something for everyone, just like a good Sunday dinner,” wrote Mary McNamara of Los Angeles Times. New York Post’s Linda Stasi added: “I know the whole thing sounds been-there-done-that dopey, but Wahlberg and Selleck are so charismatic that somehow, in their hand(cuffs), it all seems almost new. Yes, it’s worth the watch.”
You know that feeling when you stumble upon a TV show so good you can’t stop watching — one episode turns into five, and suddenly it’s 3 AM? Well, that’s exactly what’s happening right now across the UK with this new crime procedural drama that fans and critics alike are calling “engrossing” and “a must-watch for everyone.”
But what makes this series so buzz-worthy? Why is this procedural capturing the hearts of mystery lovers, thriller junkies, and casual viewers alike? Stick around, because I’m breaking down every detail you need to know — from its plot twists to its star-studded cast.
What Is This New UK Crime Procedural All About?
A Fresh Take on the Classic Whodunit
Forget the tired tropes. This show reinvents the crime procedural genre with a modern twist — blending intense mystery, layered characters, and gritty realism.
The Setting: Gloomy, Rain-Soaked London
Picture dark alleyways, fog-covered bridges, and neon-lit pubs. The atmosphere itself feels like a character — heavy, haunting, and impossible to ignore.
The Main Cast: Faces You’ll Soon Know By Heart
1. Detective Inspector Grace Holloway – Played by Emilia Hart
Who is she?
A sharp, emotionally complex detective balancing a messy personal life with the demands of solving brutal crimes.
Fun Fact:
Emilia Hart previously starred in a West End thriller — her stage intensity translates beautifully to screen.
2. Detective Sergeant Leo Grant – Played by Oliver West
Who is he?
The laid-back but brilliant partner to Holloway, known for breaking the rules — and breaking hearts.
Fun Fact:
Oliver West was voted “Most Charming Actor” by UK TV Times three years in a row.
3. Chief Superintendent Fiona Blake – Played by Sophia Turner
Who is she?
The tough-as-nails boss who keeps the team in check, but whose own secrets could tear everything apart.
Supporting Characters Worth Watching
4. Forensic Expert Dr. Malik Khan
Brings dry humor and scientific genius to every grim crime scene.
5. Rookie Cop Ellie Cooper
New on the force, eager to prove herself — but hiding a mysterious past.
6. Crime Journalist Max Bennett
Sometimes helping the cops, sometimes exposing them. Always stirring trouble.
Why Viewers Are Calling This Show “Engrossing”
1. Twists You Won’t See Coming
Every episode ends with a twist sharp enough to leave you gasping. No easy resolutions here — just shocking surprises that keep you hooked.
2. Characters That Feel Real
They’re messy, flawed, human — just like us. You’ll root for them, yell at them, and maybe even cry with them.
3. A Soundtrack That Sets the Mood
Think haunting piano mixed with eerie electronica. The music alone is worth the watch.
Plot Lines With Something for Everyone
For the Mystery Lovers:
Who’s behind the “Canary Wharf Murders”? The case that keeps dragging the team deeper into the city’s underbelly.
For the Drama Fans:
Will Holloway’s divorce cost her custody of her daughter? Personal stakes run just as high as professional ones.
For the Thrill Seekers:
Car chases, rooftop fights, bomb threats — this show doesn’t skimp on the action.
The Show’s Realistic Take on Police Work
No Hollywood glamour here. Cases take weeks to crack. Mistakes happen. Paperwork piles up. This is crime-solving how it really is — frustrating, dangerous, and heartbreakingly human.
Filmed on Location: London’s Hidden Corners Revealed
Forget the tourist spots — this show digs into London’s forgotten corners:
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Abandoned tube stations
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Derelict warehouses
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River Thames at midnight
It’s like a love letter to the city’s dark side.
Why Critics Are Raving
The Guardian called it “the crime drama the UK didn’t know it needed.”
BBC Culture hailed its “unflinching portrayal of the modern British justice system.”
Digital Spy said: “Finally, a procedural that’s as smart as it is stylish.”
Audience Reactions: Social Media Is Losing It
Twitter’s On Fire:
“Best British crime show since Luther. I’m obsessed.”
“Emilia Hart deserves ALL the awards.”
“Who else screamed at that Season 1 finale twist?!”
Reddit’s Theory Boards Are Blowing Up:
Fans are trying to solve Season 2’s mystery before the detectives can. Good luck with that — the writers are three steps ahead.
Season 2 Teasers: What’s Coming Next?
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A chilling new serial killer storyline
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A surprise betrayal from inside the police force
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A major character death that will change everything
How To Watch the Hottest Crime Procedural in the UK
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BBC iPlayer (Free for UK viewers)
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Amazon Prime Video (For international fans)
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Sky Atlantic (Catch re-runs and behind-the-scenes specials)
What Sets This Procedural Apart from Others?
1. Diversity Done Right
Realistic representation across race, gender, and sexuality — without feeling forced.
2. Slow Burn Meets High Stakes
It simmers… until it explodes.
3. It Respects Your Intelligence
No spoon-feeding. You solve the mystery alongside the detectives.
Is This the Next Global Crime Hit?
Fans across Europe are already catching on — and Netflix is rumored to be negotiating global streaming rights. Could this become the next Broadchurch or Luther? All signs point to YES.
Final Thoughts: Why You Can’t Miss This Show
If you like crime, mystery, drama — heck, even if you just love great TV — this procedural offers something for everyone. It’s smart, gripping, and impossible to stop watching.
So clear your weekend. Trust me. One episode… and you’ll be hooked.
