Is 'Hostage' the Next 'Bodyguard'? A Look at the Hype, the Critics, and the Questions That Remain

Have you heard about Hostage? I haven’t watched it yet (August 21 is just around the corner!), but the buzz from critics already has me intrigued. If you loved Bodyguard or The Diplomat, this new British political thriller starring Suranne Jones might just be your next obsession.

Set against a backdrop of international intrigue and nail-biting suspense, Hostage follows a British Prime Minister whose husband is kidnapped. Suddenly, politics isn’t just about power—it’s personal, raw, and dangerously close to home.

So, what are the critics saying?

Major voices like The Guardian describe it as "fast-paced, emotional, and complex," praising its authentic blend of political drama and family sacrifice. It’s not just another thriller—it’s a story with heart and high stakes, according to their review.

Meanwhile, the Financial Times frames Hostage as part of a "revival of the political thriller," emphasizing how it taps into very real-world anxieties, with writer Matt Charman channeling moments like the January 6th Capitol riot to make the tension palpable.

Even tech and entertainment outlets like Tom’s Guide are hyped about the trailer, calling it a "sleek, high-stakes binge," promising psychological intensity and emotional tug-of-war.

Critics draw intriguing comparisons to hits like Bodyguard — but Hostage aims to be more intimate, with the prime minister’s family directly threatened, adding an extra emotional layer.

The mix of political manoeuvring, personal drama, and moral dilemmas seems to set it apart, and Julie Delpy’s involvement adds a touch of European flair.

But here’s the big question: Will Hostage live up to these promising early reviews? Will it truly capture that addictive mix of tension, heart, and political intrigue that kept us glued to the screen in shows like Bodyguard?

August 21 can’t come soon enough. When it drops on Netflix, I’ll be there watching — and judging for myself. What about you? Are you ready to dive in and see if Hostage is the next big British thriller to binge? Or will it just be another "almost"?

Let’s chat when the episodes land.