Period dramas and gangster stories are two genres with millions of devoted fans worldwide. Now, a series expertly blends both into a compulsive, entertaining package—and it's not Peaky Blinders.
The six-part BBC drama Dope Girls has seriously impressed audiences and critics alike. It is available to stream free on BBC iPlayer. Developed for television by Polly Stenham and Alex Warren, the show is adapted from Marek Kohn's 1992 nonfiction novel Dope Girls: The Birth of the British Drug Underground. It first aired between February and March 2025 on BBC One.
Featuring a remarkable Julianne Nicholson in the lead role, who has garnered widespread acclaim, the actress is supported by Eliza Scanlen, Umi Myers, Eilidh Fisher, Sebastian Croft, Geraldine James, Rory Fleck Byrne, and Priya Kansara, completing an outstanding ensemble cast.
What Is Dope Girls About?
Dope Girls charts the emergence of the nightclub scene in London's Soho. The official synopsis states: 'As WWI ends, housewife Kate Galloway sets up a nightclub in Soho to support her daughters; Kate must contend with a dangerous gangster family and the police to survive.'
Boasting an impressive 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the series has gathered widespread acclaim. One critic declared it their 'newest obsession': 'The end result is something as desperately addictive, seedy and glamorous as the lives that these real women led. Say hello to your newest obsession; it's certainly mine.'
Another reviewer said: 'Historical Dramas are popping this summer, and Hulu's Dope Girls is a solid woman-centered drama with a hard edge. I wanna say this series is also a female gangster origin story worth watching.'
One critic noted: 'Its ambition is entertaining, and it is hard to get bored, especially when the crime really gets going.'
Audience Reactions
Audiences were equally enthralled. One viewer drew comparisons to Peaky Blinders: 'Visually, the show is flamboyant, dynamic and theatrical. Cabaret flair and stylised touches make Soho feel alive and unpredictable. Dope Girls isn't just another gangster drama. It's bold, messy, beautiful and unforgettable. If Peaky Blinders is a stiff drink, this is champagne spilling over the rim.'
An IMDb user review echoed the sentiment: 'Some call this series a spiritual heir to Peaky Blinders, which I have not seen; there are far too many TV shows glamorizing gangsters already. This one is different because it is so women-centric.'
Another viewer said: 'Stylish, thrilling and dazzling in equal measure. Great to see a gangster flick with women at the forefront, vying for a piece of the action in a violent but boisterous post-war London.'
A fan shared: 'I recently finished watching Season 1 of Dope Girls on Hulu, and I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. The show dives deep into the lives of its characters, showcasing their struggles and dreams with a refreshing honesty. The blend of humor and serious moments kept me engaged, and I loved how the story unfolded. The cast is really talented, and they bring a lot of personality to their roles. Overall, Dope Girls is worth a watch if you're looking for something fun yet meaningful.'
Dope Girls is streaming now on BBC iPlayer.
