For viewers hunting for something new—or rather something timeless—there are a couple of standout dramas making waves right now.
From a long-forgotten BBC courtroom series to a blockbuster Western prequel now on Netflix UK, audiences are buzzing about shows they somehow missed the first time around.
Garrow’s Law Reignites Interest as BBC’s Hidden Treasure
A period drama that first aired back in 2009, Garrow’s Law, has recently resurfaced on BBC iPlayer, and fans are wondering why it flew under the radar for so long.
The series, starring Andrew Buchan and Lyndsey Marshall, has been hailed as one of the BBC’s best-kept secrets.
The show explores the life of 18th-century barrister William Garrow, a pioneering lawyer who helped establish the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” and revolutionized cross-examination in the courtroom.
Real crimes—from treason to rape—are brought to life using historical accounts from Old Bailey trials.
Broadchurch star Andrew Buchan, now 49, reflected on Garrow’s impact: “People were being sent to prison, even hanged, on no evidence.
Garrow stepped in and started rattling a few cages with his insightful, aggressive questioning.”
Viewers who rediscovered the series on iPlayer have been quick to praise it. One wrote: “The best period drama ever.
I instantly thought, ‘Why have I not heard about this before?’” Another added: “Clever, thought-provoking, and historically fascinating.”
Overall, the series is being celebrated for its compelling writing, brilliant casting, and insight into 18th-century legal injustices.
1883 Arrives on Netflix UK With High Praise
Meanwhile, over on Netflix UK, fans have been captivated by the Western drama 1883, the prequel to the smash-hit Yellowstone.
Originally airing in 2021 on Paramount+, the series is now streaming for the first time in the UK.
Created by Taylor Sheridan, 1883 chronicles the perilous journey of the Dutton family across the American frontier in search of a new life.
The cast includes real-life couple Faith Hill and Tim McGraw as James and Margaret Dutton, alongside Hollywood veteran Sam Elliott as the formidable former soldier Shea Brennan.
Despite having just one season of ten episodes, 1883 has left a lasting impression.
Critics and fans alike are raving, with the show boasting an impressive 89% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes—higher than the original Yellowstone’s 83%.
Social media reactions have been glowing, with one viewer calling it “by far, the best show ever made” and praising its “truly inspiring, beautiful, and sad story.”
Yellowstone Universe Continues to Expand
The success of 1883 builds on the popularity of Yellowstone, which premiered in 2018 and recently wrapped its fifth season.
Following the trials of the Dutton family at Montana’s largest ranch, the series stars Kevin Costner as John Dutton and Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton.
The Yellowstone franchise has expanded with spin-offs, including 1923 and the upcoming Beth and Rip, starring Cole Houser as the couple navigates life on a new ranch.
While 1883 and other spin-offs are now available on Netflix UK, season five of Yellowstone has yet to appear, leaving some fans frustrated.
One user lamented: “I either have to wait for it on Netflix or get Paramount+ to watch the finale.”
The fifth season finale of Yellowstone made history with 11.4 million same-day viewers, further cementing the franchise’s cultural impact.
Where to Watch
For those interested in a mix of history and drama, Garrow’s Law is available for free on BBC iPlayer.
Meanwhile, 1883 and other Yellowstone spin-offs can now be streamed on Netflix UK, giving viewers plenty of gripping stories to dive into this season.