Described as a “high-stakes, high energy” crime story set within the world of a Liverpool casino with “two unforgettable characters at its heart”, The Cage follows Leanne (Smith) and Matty (played by Showtrial’s Michael Socha), who discover they are both robbing from the safe at the inner-city casino they work in. Soon, their lives are set on a collision course… with each other, the local gangster they’re stealing from and the police.

Funny, poignant, thrilling and sad, The Cage isn’t just a fast-paced crime thriller; it’s a story of family, love and the lengths we go to to protect those we care about.

Despite starting in comedies like The Royle Family and Two Pints Of Lager And A Packet Of Crisps, Smith has become known for her grittier roles, from her heart-wrenching performance in the BBC’s Four Lives to Channel 5’s The Teacher, in which she played a woman accused of having a sexual relationship with one of her pupils. So, it’s safe to say that we can’t wait to see the sensitivity and depth she brings to the role of Leanne.

Production for The Cage has begun, with filming taking place across Merseyside, but no official release date has been shared. We’ll be sure to keep you updated with any news about The Cage, but in the meantime, you can check out our guide to the very best crime dramas on TV.

Sheridan Smith’s new BBC crime drama The Cage is the pacy thriller we’ve all been waiting for