Watch The Protector

The Protector is an American police procedural drama series that aired on Lifetime from June to September of 2011. Created by Michael Nankin and Jeffrey Bell, the show centers around Gloria Sheppard (played by Ally Walker), a single mother and LAPD homicide detective who balances her personal life with her job while solving crimes in Los Angeles. The show is a combination of drama, comedy, and action that pulls viewers in with its intriguing and emotional storylines.

Gloria is a tough and fearless detective who is respected by her colleagues but has a hard time opening up to people. She is dedicated to her job and takes pride in solving difficult cases, but her personal life is complicated by her strained relationship with her ex-husband, who is also a detective in the same police department. Gloria's two children, Leo (Thomas Robinson) and Nick (Sage Ryan), are her top priority and she struggles to balance their needs with the demands of her job.

Throughout the series, Gloria and her partner, Michelle Dulcett (Tisha Campbell-Martin), work to solve a variety of cases, including homicides, kidnappings, robberies, and drug busts. Some of these cases hit close to home for Gloria, as they involve her family or friends. She also deals with office politics, as she is often at odds with her superiors and colleagues. Despite these challenges, she never loses sight of her goal to protect and serve the citizens of Los Angeles.

The Protector is known for its strong female lead, as well as its portrayal of a working single mother. The show tackles issues such as sexism, racism, and discrimination in the workplace, as Gloria fights for her place in a male-dominated profession. The show also explores the challenges of balancing work and family, as Gloria struggles to be a good mother while also being a successful detective. These themes resonate with viewers and have made The Protector a cult favorite.

One of the show's strengths is its supporting cast, which includes Miguel Ferrer as Gloria's boss, Lieutenant Felix Valdez, and Chris Payne Gilbert as Gloria's ex-husband, Frank. These characters add depth and complexity to the show, as they have their own personal and professional struggles that intertwine with Gloria's. Gloria also has a love interest, LAPD detective Davey Seaver (Chris Butler), who provides a romantic subplot that is both sweet and complicated.

Another notable aspect of The Protector is its depiction of the city of Los Angeles. The show takes advantage of its setting to explore the diversity and complexity of the city, showcasing its different neighborhoods, cultures, and social issues. It also features a vibrant soundtrack that includes songs from artists such as The Black Keys and Death Cab for Cutie.

Despite its many strengths, The Protector only lasted one season on Lifetime. The show received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the performances and the show's attempt to tackle complex issues, but criticized its formulaic plot and lack of originality. Viewers, however, were more positive, and the show has since gained a cult following.

In conclusion, The Protector is a police procedural drama that offers a unique and compelling take on the genre. Its strong female lead, nuanced supporting cast, and exploration of complex themes make it a must-watch for fans of crime shows. While it may not have been a critical darling, it has certainly earned a place in the hearts of its fans.