'Masterpiece' BBC crime drama hailed as 'the best show currently available on TV'

There are some shows produced by British companies that take the world by storm. And one of them is so good that viewers are calling it "the best show currently available on UK TV". Many also say they cannot stop watching and that it is unlike anything else ever produced by British broadcasting companies.

The series is a psychological crime thriller that follows a troubled detective as he tries to bring criminals to justice while battling his own demons. Over the years, it has earned a reputation for gripping plots, intense performances and scenes that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The show first aired more than a decade ago and has returned in multiple series over the years, each one greeted with high expectations.

Critics have praised its darker tone, slick production and standout lead actor, who has been awarded Golden Globe, Critics' Choice and Screen Actors Guild awards for his performance.

It has also been recognised internationally, receiving eleven Primetime Emmy Award nominations and high scores on review aggregator sites.

On Rotten Tomatoes, the series has approval ratings ranging from 79% to 100% across its seasons, with an average Tomatometer of 88% and an 88% audience score.

Viewers have been equally enthusiastic. One said: "I've come across [this show] recently and cannot stop watching it. I believe I found what is the best show currently available on UK TV. Cannot recommend enough."

Another wrote: "This is the best thing on TV. Idris Elba is amazing. His acting is superb. I've waited with baited breath for the 2019 series and it was worth it. I'm one of the biggest fans of this show, so pleased it came back as it made my year."

The BBC crime drama they are talking about is Luther, starring Idris Elba as DCI John Luther and Ruth Wilson as Alice Morgan.

One reviewer called it "a tour de force in the realm of crime dramas". They added: "Elba's portrayal of Detective John Luther is nothing short of mesmerizing; he brings a perfect balance of vulnerability and intensity to a character grappling with personal demons."

Another said: "The best series I have ever watched. Every episode keeps you gripped to watch another, and another, straight from the start.

"The series has been really well produced to keep you on your toes and keep you questioning. A true British Crime drama that doesn't disappoint when depicting murder scenes and bludgeoned bodies."

Fans also praised how the main character changes over time. One review read: "Perfect action packed thriller. Love the way as the character of Luther evolves through the seasons from being a hot headed cop who doesn't care about the consequences of his actions to slowing down his pace to try his best and protect the people he loves the most, whom he has been losing all his life."

All five seasons of Luther are available to stream on BBC iPlayer.