Adapted from Amit Dhand’s novels set in the city, this is a major six parts series with an Asian family at the centre of the drama…
BRADFORD takes centre stage in the BBC’s highly anticipated crime thriller ‘Virdee’.
Based on the bestselling novels by Bradford-born author Amit (AA) Dhand, the six-part series delivers what has been described as a gripping narrative, delving deep into crime, family, and loyalty but also celebrating the city’s rich heritage and vibrant identity. Shot on location in the city, the series promises to showcase the region’s unique cultural heartbeat to a global audience.
At the centre of the drama is Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Harry Virdee, played by ‘Game of Thrones’ star Staz Nair.
Harry Virdee is a man torn between duty and personal turmoil – a dedicated cop estranged from his Sikh family after marrying Saima, a Muslim woman. Aysha Kala (‘Indian Summers’) brings depth to Saima’s character, while Vikash Bhai (‘Limbo’) plays her brother, Riaz, a crime kingpin.
When a young dealer is murdered, Virdee’s quest for justice becomes deeply personal. Struggling to navigate chaos at work and home, he must rely on Riaz’s help – a choice that could shatter them both. As a killer holds the city hostage, Virdee faces an impossible decision: save his family or protect his city.
For Dhand, who wrote and adapted the series for television, Virdee is more than just a thriller; it’s a “love letter to Bradford”.
The city’s landmarks – from Little Germany and Harold Park to the iconic City Hall – serve as both a backdrop and a character within the series. “I wanted the story to reflect the richness and struggles of the community,” Dhand said.
The cast of Virdee really highlights its commitment to diversity and representation, said the BBC. It features well-known actors like Kulvinder Ghir (‘Foundation’) and Sudha Bhuchar (‘Expats’), who play Virdee’s parents. Upcoming talent Danyal Ismail (‘The Outrun’) joins the team as DS Amin, who is Virdee’s new cop partner. Nina Singh plays Tara Virdee, Harry’s niece, who dreams of becoming a crime reporter.
The show’s high production values are matched by the legendary film score composer Hans Zimmer who worked with James Everingham and Shashwat Sachdev to create the show’s title music. It is meant to give the action the big screen treatment and appeal to an international audience.
Behind the scenes, the show has also seen another considerable step forward for Bradford. The BBC, Bradford Council, and Screen Yorkshire have teamed up to launch the Screen Academy Bradford. It’s a programme designed to train and support local talent. More than two-thirds of the crew and participants are from the West Yorkshire area, bringing an authentic voice to the whole production.
Staz Nair, who leads the series as Harry Virdee, expressed his connection to the story’s emotional core. “This show leads with vulnerability and authenticity,” Nair said. “It’s an honour to bring AA Dhand’s vision for Bradford to life.”
‘Virdee’ screens on BBC 1 from 9pm GMT tomorrow (Monday, February 10 in the UK only)
