Peelers: Lurgan and Portadown officers among the new faces as popular TV series returns at 'important time' for PSNI
Officers from Lurgan and Portadown will be among the new faces featured in the second series of hit TV show ‘Peelers: The PSNI For Real’.
The programme will see presenter Stephen Nolan join patrols on Northern Ireland’ streets, reflecting the realities of 24/7 policing and its many challenges.
Approximately a quarter of the region’s population watched the first series on television and BBC iPlayer, delivering the highest viewing figures for any factual BBC series in Northern Ireland last year (January 2026 - present). It also attracted a large UK-wide audience following its screening on network television.
The series returns with its already familiar team of officers and some new faces from police teams in Lurgan and Portadown. Stephen joins them as they deal with everything from drug-related incidents, violent street fights and dangerous driving offences to animal cruelty investigations, domestic abuse cases and major drug searches.
Stephen said: “The response to the first series of Peelers was incredible. Everywhere I went, people were asking me about it. We’re delighted to be back with even greater access to frontline policing across Northern Ireland.
"This series gives viewers an unfiltered look at the reality of the job, following officers as they tackle crime, protect vulnerable people and respond to incidents that can change in an instant.
“It’s compelling, surprising and, at times, deeply moving television. We follow officers dealing with everything from drug-related incidents and violent disorder to protecting vulnerable people in crisis, showing the extraordinary range of situations they face every day.
"And, of course, it wouldn’t be Peelers without the officers giving me a bit of stick from time to time.”
Welcoming the return of the programme, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said it comes at an important time for the force.
He commented: “The first series gave the public a valuable and unfiltered insight into the demands of modern policing in Northern Ireland. It reflected the professionalism, courage and compassion shown by our officers and staff as they respond to people in crisis, protect communities and deal with often complex and challenging circumstances.
"I am certain that Series Two will continue to give the public that ‘fly on the wall’ insight into policing in Northern Ireland. I want to again thank every officer and member of staff who took part.
"I recognise that this was not a straightforward decision, particularly given the enduring threat faced by many of our people. Their willingness to share their experiences has helped increase public understanding of the realities of frontline policing.
“As we mark the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s 25th anniversary, the new series offers a further opportunity to reflect on the contribution policing makes to communities across Northern Ireland and on the people who deliver that service every day.
“It also comes at an important time for recruitment. We are currently seeking new student officers from all backgrounds and communities, people with integrity, compassion and a willingness to learn who want to make a meaningful difference.”
Peelers: The PSNI - For Real is a Third Street Studios production for BBC News NI. It is back on screens on Wednesday, November 11, on BBC One NI at 10.40pm, with the whole series available on BBC iPlayer from 6am that morning. It will also be on BBC Two on Monday, November 16, at 10pm.