Coogan Sheds Partridge Persona for Netflix Thriller

Steve Coogan is set to portray a tough customs officer in Netflix's upcoming six-part drama, 'Legends.' This new role marks a significant departure from his iconic, bumbling character, Alan Partridge. The series, set to premiere on May 7, delves into a thrilling policing narrative.

'Legends' is inspired by a real-life criminal investigation from the early 1990s. It focuses on Her Majesty's Customs and Excise's efforts to combat smugglers. The drama follows a specialized team of customs employees who go undercover.

These ordinary men and women, without prior spy training, are given 'legend' identities to infiltrate drug gangs. Coogan, as the policing boss, guides these recruits through a basic training regime and warns them of the extreme dangers. The series promises high-stakes action and intense undercover operations.

Creator Neil Forsyth expressed excitement, calling 'Legends' a "fascinating, gripping, unknown British story." The trailer highlights the perilous nature of the missions, with characters emphasizing the life-or-death risks involved in adopting their secret personas.