If you’re a fan of action-packed buddy-cop dramas with a healthy dose of humor, high stakes, and compelling personal stories, then the British series “Bulletproof” is a thrilling ride. Created by and starring Noel Clarke and Ashley Walters, this Sky One original brings a dynamic duo to the streets of East London.
What is “Bulletproof” about?
“Bulletproof” centers on two best friends and police partners, Aaron Bishop (Noel Clarke) and Ronnie Pike (Ashley Walters). They work as detectives for the National Crime Agency (NCA), tackling serious organized crime, from drug trafficking and armed robbery to human smuggling.
Despite their close bond, Bishop and Pike come from drastically different backgrounds. Pike grew up in a comfortable, middle-class family with a father who was a pioneering Black police commissioner, and he feels the pressure to live up to those expectations. Bishop, on the other hand, spent his youth in foster homes and on the streets, having to fight for everything he has. These contrasting upbringings often inform their differing approaches to life and their work, but their shared moral code and an almost unbreakable fraternal bond always bring them back together.
The series is known for its high-octane action sequences, including car chases, intense shootouts, and brutal hand-to-hand combat, often inspired by classic Hollywood buddy-cop movies like Lethal Weapon and Bad Boys. Beyond the action, “Bulletproof” also delves into the personal lives of Bishop and Pike, exploring their relationships, family struggles, and the emotional toll of their dangerous jobs. Each season sees them pursuing major criminal enterprises, sometimes taking them beyond national borders.
Why “Bulletproof” is a compelling watch:
- Electric Chemistry: The undeniable chemistry and natural banter between Noel Clarke and Ashley Walters are the heart of the show. Their believable friendship makes the action and drama feel more impactful.
- Action-Packed: If you enjoy car chases, gunfights, and explosive set pieces, “Bulletproof” delivers. It aims for a big-screen feel despite being a TV series.
- Buddy-Cop Fun: It embraces the classic buddy-cop genre tropes while adding a modern British sensibility and addressing contemporary crime issues.
- Character-Driven: While the action is prominent, the show also takes time to explore the personal lives and struggles of Bishop and Pike, adding depth to their characters and their relationship.
- Relevant Themes: The series touches on themes of class, family legacy, street life, and the complexities of law enforcement in diverse urban environments.
Who are the main actors in “Bulletproof”?
- Noel Clarke as Aaron Bishop
- Ashley Walters as Ronnie Pike
- Jason Maza as Chris Munroe
- Lindsey Coulson as DCI Sarah Tanner
- Christina Chong as Nell McBride (Season 1)
- Lashana Lynch as Arjana Pike (Season 1)
- Mandeep Dhillon as Kamali Khan (Season 1)
- Olivia Chenery as Scarlett ‘Scooch’ Hailton (Seasons 2-3)
- Lucie Shorthouse as Paige Pennington (Seasons 2-3)
- Clarke Peters as Ronald Pike Sr. (Pike’s father)
Where to Watch “Bulletproof”:
“Bulletproof” originally aired on Sky One in the UK. In the U.S., it was picked up by The CW.
You can typically stream “Bulletproof” on:
- Apple TV (for purchase)
- Amazon Prime Video (for purchase)
- Google Play Movies & TV (for purchase)
- YouTube TV (with a live TV subscription, for select episodes/seasons)
- Plex (for free with ads, for some seasons)
Note: Following allegations against Noel Clarke in 2021, Sky confirmed that it had ceased working with him, effectively canceling any future seasons of “Bulletproof.” The CW also pulled the show from its streaming platforms at the time.
If you enjoyed “Bulletproof,” you might also like:
- Lethal Weapon (TV series): For another buddy-cop dynamic with high action and humor.
- S.W.A.T. (CBS): For a modern action procedural focused on a specialized police unit.
- Gangs of London (AMC+/Netflix): For a grittier, more intense look at organized crime in London.
- Luther (BBC America/Hulu): For a darker, more psychologically driven British crime drama with a brilliant detective.
- Line of Duty (Acorn TV/BritBox): For an acclaimed British police procedural focusing on anti-corruption.