Virdee is a BBC crime thriller that follows Detective Harry Virdee, played by Staz Nair, as he investigates a series of murders targeting the South Asian community in Bradford. Created, written, and executive produced by AA Dhand, the series is based on his novels, including City of Sinners.The show explores the complexities of Bradford’s cultural and historical landscape, blending gripping storytelling with real-world issues.
Where Was Virdee Filmed?
The filming of Virdee took place entirely in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England. The series uses real locations throughout the city to bring authenticity to its story.
Author AA Dhand, who grew up in Bradford, personally selected many of the filming sites to showcase the city’s contrast between its historical past and modern transformation.
City Park
One of the most prominent locations featured in Virdee is City Park, a large urban space known for its mirror pool, the largest urban water feature in the UK. The park’s bright, modern look is used in the series to contrast with darker locations, highlighting the changing face of Bradford.
Bradford’s Historic Mills
The series also makes use of Bradford’s old textile mills, which reflect the city’s industrial past. These abandoned structures add a haunting backdrop to the crime thriller, reinforcing its dark and intense themes. Dhand emphasized how the city’s history plays a role in shaping the atmosphere of the show.
Bradford City Hall
The Bradford City Hall, with its iconic Venetian-style tower, is a major filming location in Virdee. The building’s distinctive architecture and lighting make it a striking part of the series, frequently appearing in key scenes.
Cartwright Hall & Lister Park
Another notable location is Cartwright Hall, an art gallery situated in Lister Park. The park’s scenic beauty is used to provide a visual contrast in the series, serving as a backdrop for more uplifting moments in the story.
Sunbridge Wells Tunnels
The underground tunnels of Sunbridge Wells, a historic site beneath the city, were also used in the series. These tunnels add a unique visual element, contributing to the thriller’s suspenseful and mysterious tone.
Khidmat Community Centre & Local Streets
The Khidmat Community Centre and several streets and homes across Bradford were used for various scenes, adding realism to the series. The show captures the city’s daily life while staying true to its cultural setting.
When Did the Filming of Virdee Take Place?
Filming for Virdee took place in 2023, with the production team carefully selecting locations that would enhance the story’s emotional and visual impact.
Official Trailer
FAQs-
Q: What is Virdee about?
A: The series follows Detective Harry Virdee, a determined officer investigating a serial killer targeting Bradford’s South Asian community. The show explores themes of justice, cultural identity, and the complexities of the city.
Q: Who stars in Virdee?
A: The main cast includes Staz Nair as Harry Virdee, with Vikash Bhai and other supporting actors bringing Bradford’s community to life.
Q: Who created Virdee?
A: The series was created, written, and executive produced by AA Dhand, based on his novels, including City of Sinners.
Q: Where was Virdee filmed?
A: The series was filmed entirely in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England, using real locations to add authenticity to the story.