The BBC has released first-look images and confirmed full casting for The Cage, a new five-part crime drama from The Responder creator Tony Schumacher. Sheridan Smith and Michael Socha lead the ensemble, playing casino workers caught in a double-cross with criminal consequences.
Set in a Liverpool casino, The Cage follows Leanne (Smith) and Matty (Socha), two employees independently stealing from the same safe. When their secret is exposed, both find themselves in the crosshairs of gangsters and police. The supporting cast includes Barry Sloane as Gary, Geraldine James as Nancy, and a roster of Merseyside talent across key roles including Anton Bibby, Freya Jones, Sophie Mensah, Abby Mavers, Shaun Mason, Louis Emerick, Ian Puleston Davies, Julia Papp, Katy Carmichael, Dave Hart, Eileen O’Brien, Eithne Browne, and Mona Goodwin.
Directed by Al Mackay (Without Sin), the series was shot on location across Liverpool and surrounding areas. It’s produced by Element Pictures (Poor Things, Normal People) in association with Fremantle, who will handle international sales. Executive producers include Hilary Martin, Tony Schumacher, Sheridan Smith, and Lucy Richer for the BBC.
The Cage reinforces the BBC’s commitment to regional crime drama with sharp character focus, following a run of success with titles like Blue Lights and The Responder. Schumacher’s return keeps the broadcaster in business with one of its most effective dramatic voices, while Smith’s profile adds reach across linear and on-demand audiences.
The project also strengthens Fremantle’s footprint in premium UK drama, positioned for global distribution alongside returning titles like Boat Story. It’s a strategic pairing of local specificity with international ambition.
The Cage will air later this year on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
