However all episodes of the crime drama from Kin creator are already streaming
The BBC has made new episodes of ‘television’s most stressful thriller’ available on iPlayer ahead of its weekend return.
Every episode of Hidden Assets can now be streamed at no additional charge on the platform. This encompasses the recently launched third series, which had previously been exclusive to Acorn TV towards the end of last year.
Viewers who are up to date with Hidden Assets’ most recent instalment can watch the latest episodes as they broadcast each Saturday on BBC Four at 9pm. Alternatively, the entire collection is already accessible for streaming on iPlayer immediately.
The programme is actually a collaborative Irish-Belgian-Canadian production. It has been developed and written by Peter McKenna, who has previously crafted other successful crime dramas such as Kin and Gangs of London.
Each series comprises six episodes, giving newcomers substantial content to work through. That said, it promises to be a swift binge-watch, with both fans and critics suggesting viewers become engrossed remarkably quickly, reports the Mirror.
For those unfamiliar with the programme, the opening series takes place in contemporary Shannon, County Clare, Ireland, its Free Zone and airport, alongside the port of Antwerp, Belgium.
The storyline centres on the Irish Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and the Belgian Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU). The second series unfolds between Antwerp and County Clare (specifically Limerick), while the third takes place across Dublin and Bilbao, where CAB collaborates with Ertzaintza detectives.
According to the synopsis, the story kicks off when a raid uncovers evidence linking a low-level drug dealer to multiple bombings in Belgium. This prompts Irish detective Emer Berry to travel to Antwerp, where she encounters Christian de Jong from the anti-terrorism squad. The pair then work to unravel an international conspiracy encompassing drugs, terrorism, and corruption amongst business and political figures.
Despite lacking sufficient professional reviews for a Rotten Tomatoes rating, the series has garnered considerable acclaim. The Guardian dubbed it ‘television’s most stressful thriller’ when it returned, while one critic described it as “a first-rate Irish crime drama series with Scandi-noir twists.”
Viewers have been equally enthusiastic, actively recommending it to others. One posted online: “Brilliant Irish police thriller so much better than the BBC’s Northern Irish attempt, ‘Blue Lights’.”
Another commented: “Compelling drama. Well written , directed and acted. Could not wait to see next episode and good ending. Definitely recommend. As good as Line of Duty.”
Another viewer declared: “Ever since Love/Hate we’ve been waiting for a gripping Irish Crime series to come along and here it is.” A further comment read: “Right away you get sucked into the storyline and get caught up in the action. The acting is first class from all. I’m already looking forward to the next episode.”
Hidden Assets airs Saturday at 9pm on BBC Four and is streaming on BBC iPlayer.