Why was the ITV show 'Protection' canceled?

The crime thriller 'Protection' was canceled by ITV following a significant number of viewer complaints on social media, citing issues with the script and character development.

Was Siobhan Finneran's show 'Protection' a success?

Despite initial high expectations and predictions of it being the 'next Line of Duty,' the show 'Protection' was canceled after its debut season due to negative viewer feedback.

What was the premise of the ITV crime drama 'Protection'?

'Protection' followed police officer DI Liz Nyles as she worked in witness protection, while also dealing with personal issues and ethical boundaries.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / ITV's New Crime Thriller Axed After Viewer Backlash

ITV's New Crime Thriller Axed After Viewer Backlash

17 Dec, 2025

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Summary

ITV canceled the crime thriller 'Protection' shortly after its March debut.
The show was initially predicted to be the 'next Line of Duty'.
Viewer complaints cited script issues and character portrayal as reasons for dissatisfaction.

ITV's New Crime Thriller Axed After Viewer Backlash

ITV has made the surprising decision to cancel its new crime thriller, 'Protection,' mere months after its initial launch in March. The series, which garnered early buzz as a potential successor to the popular 'Line of Duty,' will not be returning for a second season. This move comes as a shock given the show's strong cast and initial high hopes.

The series followed DI Liz Nyles, portrayed by Siobhan Finneran, an officer navigating the complexities of witness protection while dealing with personal entanglements and ethical dilemmas. Despite featuring notable actors like Katherine Kelly, the show unfortunately divided audiences.

A significant number of viewers expressed their disappointment online, citing issues with the script and the protagonist's characterization. Complaints suggested that the plot was slow and the lead character came across as dishonest, impacting the overall viewing experience. While a portion of the audience found the show gripping, the prevailing criticism has led to its untimely cancellation.