Michelle Keegan’s Highest-Rated TV Drama Is a “Brilliant” BBC Period Series You Can Stream Now

Fans of Michelle Keegan looking for their next TV obsession should add Ten Pound Poms to their watchlist. The BBC period drama has earned praise from critics and viewers alike, boasts an 80% Rotten Tomatoes score for its first season, and is currently available to stream in full on BBC iPlayer in the UK.

Following Keegan’s appearance in The Blame earlier this year, the series offers another opportunity to see the actor in a compelling drama. Created by Danny Brocklehurst, Ten Pound Poms explores a chapter of post-war history through the experiences of British women who leave their homeland in search of a better future overseas.

What Is Ten Pound Poms About?

Set in the aftermath of World War II, Ten Pound Poms follows several British women who emigrate to Australia and New Zealand, hoping to build better lives far from home. However, the promise of a fresh start comes with its own challenges, as the newcomers discover that starting over is not always as straightforward as they had imagined.

The series was created and co-written by Danny Brocklehurst, who has previously worked with Keegan on several popular productions, including Ordinary Lies, Brassic and Fool Me Once. His collaboration with the actor continues in this historical drama, which combines personal stories with the wider realities of post-war migration.

Keegan stars as Kate Thorne, alongside Warren Brown as Terry Roberts and Faye Marsay as Annie Roberts. Brocklehurst also serves as a producer, with Ryan Griffen, Smita Bhide and Ava Pickett joining him as co-writers.

All 12 Episodes Are Available on BBC iPlayer

Originally broadcast on BBC One across two seasons in 2023 and 2025, Ten Pound Poms consists of 12 episodes. UK viewers can now catch up with the entire series on BBC iPlayer, although the available streaming window is limited to four months.

That gives viewers a chance to experience both seasons without having to wait for weekly episodes. Anyone interested in historical dramas, stories about starting over, or Keegan’s previous television work may find the series a worthwhile addition to their watchlist.

Why Has the Drama Earned So Much Praise?

With an 80% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes for its first season, Ten Pound Poms stands out as the highest-rated television series in Michelle Keegan’s career, according to the figures cited in the original report. Much of the positive response has focused on the cast’s performances, the characters and the show’s treatment of the post-war immigration experience.

Reviews have highlighted the drama’s engaging storytelling and its value as a portrayal of a lesser-known chapter of British history.

Decider described the series as a watchable drama examining the difficulties Britons encountered in Australia during the post-World War II immigration movement. Meanwhile, The i praised it as a well-executed and earnest period piece, highlighting its committed performances and likeable characters.

The Guardian also found the series enjoyable and compelling, noting its educational value for audiences unfamiliar with the Ten Pound Poms story. Viewer feedback has been positive, too, with one IMDb reviewer summing up their reaction in a single word: “brilliant”.

Together, these responses help explain why the series has attracted attention from both critics and audiences.

How Does It Rank Among Michelle Keegan’s Best Shows?

Despite its strong reception, Ten Pound Poms did not take the top spot in Digital Spy’s own ranking of Keegan’s television career. The publication placed the drama seventh overall, favouring Tina and Bobby, The Blame and Our Girl.

Even so, its critical reception makes it a notable entry in Keegan’s body of work. For viewers who have enjoyed her more recent performances, the series offers a different setting and a story rooted in the experiences of people navigating an unfamiliar world after the war.

Will Ten Pound Poms Return for Season 3?

Although the drama has received encouraging reviews, a third season does not appear to be on the cards. The BBC confirmed last year that it had no plans to continue the story, meaning the existing two seasons are currently the extent of the series.

For now, viewers can revisit the story or discover it for the first time through BBC iPlayer. With all 12 episodes available to stream in the UK for a limited period, Ten Pound Poms is worth considering for anyone seeking a character-driven period drama featuring Michelle Keegan.

Ten Pound Poms is available to stream on BBC iPlayer in the UK.