This City Is Ours: Everything we know so far about BBC’s new crime drama set and filmed in Liverpool

Liverpool is once again taking centre stage in the world of TV drama as This City Is Ours, a gritty new crime series from the BBC, prepares to hit screens this spring.

Created by Stephen Butchard and directed by BAFTA-winning Saul Dibb, This City Is Ours is an eight-part series of the intense, power-driven story of crime, family, and survival – all set against the backdrop of Liverpool.

And ahead of its highly anticipated premiere on the BBC, there is an exclusive first look at episode one tomorrow, March 13, at FACT Liverpool, followed by a Q&A session with the cast, hosted by our very own Jay Hynd.

What’s This City Is Ours about?

At its core, This City Is Ours tells the story of Michael Kavanagh, a man deeply embedded in Liverpool’s organised crime scene. For years, he has worked under Ronnie Phelan, a formidable gang leader who has built an empire through a lucrative cocaine trade. But when Ronnie starts hinting at retirement, Michael begins to envision a future outside of crime—one where he can finally pursue a life with Diana, the woman he loves.

However, escaping isn’t that easy. A disastrous missing shipment signals that their kingdom is under threat, while Ronnie’s ambitious son Jamie Phelan sees an opportunity to take over. As the gang fractures, Michael and Jamie find themselves locked in a battle for control, with loyalty, and survival all at stake.

But for Michael, the biggest fight won’t just be for power – it will be to protect Diana and the child he has always wanted.

A stellar cast including plenty of local talent

The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, led by two-time BAFTA winner Sean Bean (Time, Marriage) as gang leader Ronnie Phelan and James Nelson-Joyce (Bird, A Thousand Blows) as his loyal right-hand man, Michael Kavanagh.

Also starring are:

• Hannah Onslow (Empire of Light, This Is Going to Hurt) as Diana Williams
• Jack McMullen (Hijack, Ford V Ferrari) as Jamie Phelan
• Julie Graham (Shetland, Time) as Elaine Phelan
• Laura Aikman (Archie, Gavin & Stacey) as Rachel Duffy
• Kevin Harvey (Treason, Time) as Bobby Duffy
• Saoirse-Monica Jackson (Derry Girls, Upgraded) as Cheryl Crawford
• Bobby Schofield (SAS Rogue Heroes, The Suspect) as Bonehead
• Darci Shaw (Judy, A Thousand Blows) as Melissa Sullivan
• Stephen Walters (Slow Horses, Anne) as Davy Crawford

Liverpool is at the heart of the action

This City Is Ours isn’t just set in Liverpool – it’s filmed here too, bringing authenticity and raw energy to the series.

Supported by the Liverpool Film Office through the Liverpool City Region Production Fund, the drama captures the grit and grandeur of the city’s streets, from tight-knit communities to our iconic skyline.

With additional filming in Spain, This City Is Ours explores how power, ambition, and greed can tear families apart, giving the audience a gripping look into the disintegration of a criminal empire.

Exclusive preview screening and cast Q&A at FACT Liverpool

Some lucky fans will get a first glimpse of the series before it hits BBC One and iPlayer, with a special preview screening of episode one at FACT Liverpool tomorrow, March 13.

Following the screening, The Guide Liverpool’s Jay Hynd will host a Q&A with the cast, giving us an exclusive insight into the making of the show, the characters, and what to expect from the drama’s explosive storylines.

When will This City Is Ours air?

The series is set to premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this spring, with Sony Pictures Television handling international distribution – so expect Liverpool’s latest crime drama to make waves far beyond the UK.

With an incredible cast, gripping storyline, and Liverpool as the star of the show, This City Is Ours is shaping up to be one of the must-watch dramas of the year!

Read more features from The Guide Liverpool here.