A Irish-Belgian-Canadian crime drama has captured worldwide attention, with audiences calling it one of the best police thrillers in years. Hidden Assets has quietly become a streaming hit, drawing comparisons to acclaimed shows like Line of Duty and Vigil. The series, now available on BBC iPlayer, has gained a strong following for its international conspiracy plots and gripping storytelling.
The show follows detectives from the Irish Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) as they team up with European counter-terrorism units. Viewers describe it as a “15/10 must-watch series” that delivers intense action across multiple countries. With all three seasons now streaming, new audiences are discovering this hidden gem.
The Story Behind the International Crime Thriller
The series centers on Emer Berry, a detective with Ireland’s Criminal Assets Bureau. During a routine drug raid, her team discovers rough diamonds that connect a local dealer to a series of bombings in Belgium. This leads Berry to Antwerp, where she partners with Christian De Jong of the Belgian Counter Terrorism Unit. Together, they uncover a complex web involving drugs, terrorism, and corrupt political leaders.
Peter McKenna, who created the show, previously worked on other crime dramas including Kin and Gangs of London. The series serves as a spin-off of the Irish drama Acceptable Risk. Thaddeus O’Sullivan and Kadir Ferati Balci directed multiple episodes, bringing their experience from other acclaimed productions.
The first season takes place in Shannon, County Clare, and the port of Antwerp. The second season continues between Antwerp and Limerick. The third season moves to Dublin and Bilbao, where the CAB works with Spanish detectives from the Ertzaintza.
Cast Changes and New Characters
Angeline Ball played the lead role of Emer Berry in season one. She left the series after the first season. Nora-Jane Noone joined as DS Claire Wallace for seasons two and three. Noone has appeared in The Ipcress File and Wildfire.
The show features a strong ensemble cast including Wouter Hendrickx, Aaron Monaghan, Cathy Belton, and Simone Kirby. Season three introduced new characters including Iñigo Gastesi as Inspector Jon Beitia and Steve Wall as Inspector Martin Dunlop. Michael Ironside, known for his roles in Top Gun and Scanners, appeared in season one as Richard Melnick.
Why Viewers Compare Hidden Assets to Line of Duty
Fans have drawn strong comparisons between Hidden Assets and other popular police dramas. One viewer wrote:
“Cleverly-plotted organised crime thriller is a hit. It offers a gripping and insightful window into organised crime that will appeal to fans of Line of Duty, Vigil and similar shows.”
Another audience member shared their excitement:
“This is AMAZING! Fifteen out of 10! So very much to recommend. I do not even know how to start.”
Some viewers even prefer it to other Irish dramas. One fan commented:
“Brilliant Irish police thriller so much better than the BBC’s Northern Irish attempt, ‘Blue Lights’ (a second rate soap opera with third rate actors).”
Critics have also praised the show. One reviewer called it “A first-rate Irish crime drama series with Scandi-noir twists.” Another said the show “is all about the conspiracy at the center of the first season, and we see signs from the first moments that it’ll be twisty and keep our interest.”
Where to Watch Hidden Assets
All three seasons of Hidden Assets are available to stream on BBC iPlayer at no extra cost. The complete collection includes 18 episodes across three seasons.
The show originally premiered on RTÉ One in Ireland in November 2021. Season two aired in September 2023, and season three debuted in November 2025. BBC Four has also been airing episodes on Saturday nights at 9pm.
The series is produced by Saffron Moon, Potemkino, and Facet 4 Productions. Acorn TV has distributed the show in international markets.
What Makes This Detective Drama Stand Out
The show offers something different from typical police procedurals. Instead of focusing on shootouts and car chases, Hidden Assets emphasizes financial investigation and international cooperation. The CAB team follows money trails, tracks assets, and works across borders to solve crimes.
The international setting adds another layer to the story. The series moves between Ireland, Belgium, and Spain, showing how criminal networks operate across countries. This gives viewers a look at how different police forces work together.
The show has received mixed reviews from critics. One reviewer called it “thumpingly generic” while another praised its “agreeably pulpy quality.” Despite the mixed critical reception, audiences have embraced the series, making it a popular choice for viewers looking for a new crime drama.
The series stands out as one of the few Irish dramas that has found success internationally. It has been sold to multiple territories and gained streaming audiences worldwide.
All three seasons of Hidden Assets are streaming now on BBC iPlayer for viewers in the UK. International viewers can check local streaming platforms for availability.
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