BBC viewers 'switch off' Riot Women minutes in as drama leaves fans divided

The BBC's latest drama has proven to be divisive, with some fans branding it "rubbish" while others insisted it is a "must-watch" for TV viewers.

Riot Women is the latest six-part series to be released by the broadcaster, debuting on BBC One on Sunday, 12 October, with all episodes also available on iPlayer.

Penned by acclaimed writer Sally Wainwright and shot in the town of Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire, Riot Women chronicles the journey of five women who form an unlikely punk rock group.

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Starring Joanna Scanlan, Rosalie Craig, Tamsin Greig, Lorraine Ashbourne, and Amelisa Bullmore, Riot Women looked set to be an immediate hit with TV fans; however, some weren't won over by the show.

"#RiotWomen would have switched this off had it not been written by #SallyWainwright and included some great actresses. This did not save it. Sorry, but it was rubbish," one fan complained on X.

A second said: "Wow, #RiotWomen was painful and terrible," while a third simply stated: "#RiotWomen sorry not buying it - a load of Hebden Bridge nonsense."

"I'm finding it very heavy handed and a bit disappointing #RiotWomen," someone else added.

However, other BBC viewers were instantly impressed by Riot Women and rushed to social media to praise the drama, with plenty complimenting writer Sally's work.

One fan said, "Just wanted to have a look, but hooked already, what a fabulously talented cast! Dialogue is so good," and another agreed, "#RiotWomen is a must-watch binge."

A third said: "Absolutely! Sally knows how to create magic on screen!" and a fourth BBC viewer wrote: "Absolutely brilliant #RiotWomen. Sally Wainwright does it again."

Critics have praised Riot Women so far, with The Guardianawarding the drama four stars. The publication's review highlighted: "Riot Women covers a lot of ground without getting bogged down or leaving the viewer feeling shortchanged."

Meanwhile, The i Paper's review was also complimentary, and included: "Wainwright isn’t the first to tackle the menopause years, but she’s one of the very best to do so."

Riot Women is made up of six hour-long episodes, with Sally serving as the creator, writer, and lead director. The production incorporates original music from the band ARXX.

Alongside the five actresses making up the core Riot Women ensemble are supporting vocalists Nisha, Kam, and Miranda, portrayed by Taj Atwal, Chandeep Uppal, and Macy Seelochan, respectively. Also featuring in the series are Anne Reid, Sue Johnston, Peter Davison, Claire Skinner, Angel Coulby, and Jonny Green, along with many other stars.

Riot Women is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.