Watch Judge John Deed

Judge John Deed aired on BBC1 from 2001 to 2007 and starred Martin Shaw as the eponymous Judge John Deed. The show was created by acclaimed writer G.F. Newman and followed the cases and personal life of Judge Deed, a maverick judge who often found himself at odds with his colleagues and superiors.

One of the key aspects of Judge John Deed was its commitment to exploring real-life legal issues and cases, often tackling controversial or politically sensitive topics. Over the course of its six seasons, the show dealt with issues such as assisted suicide, terrorism, police corruption, human rights abuses, and more. This commitment to realism and tackling challenging issues helped set Judge John Deed apart from other legal dramas at the time, and helped it to build a dedicated following.

Aside from its focus on complex legal cases, Judge John Deed also delved into the personal lives of its characters. In particular, the show explored Judge Deed's relationships with his colleagues, friends, and romantic partners. The show's supporting cast was a diverse group of characters, each with their own distinct personalities and backstories.

One of the show's most popular characters was Jo Mills, played by actress Jenny Seagrove. Jo was a defense barrister who often found herself on the opposite side of the courtroom from Judge Deed. Despite their professional differences, the two characters shared a deep personal connection, and their on-again, off-again romance was a popular storyline throughout the show's run.

Another popular character was George Channing, played by actor Donald Sinden. George was a senior judge who often clashed with Judge Deed over their differing views on the law and justice. Despite their disagreements, George and Judge Deed shared a mutual respect for each other, and their contentious relationship was one of the show's most compelling aspects.

Overall, Judge John Deed was a well-crafted legal drama that tackled important social issues while also exploring the personal lives of its characters. Its commitment to realism and nuanced storytelling helped it build a dedicated following over its six seasons, and it remains a standout example of the genre.