Here’s a clear and simple guide to watch Prisoner 951 in the US, along with everything you need to know about BBC’s new series Prisoner 951. The drama stars Narges Rashidi and Joseph Fiennes as a couple pulled apart by state hostage-taking and global politics.
This guide explains the storyline, episode list, cast, and how you can watch Prisoner 951 in the US even though it’s a UK-only release.
How to watch Prisoner 951 in the US on BBC iPlayer?
To watch Prisoner 951 in the US, follow the steps here:
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN app on your device.
- Connect to a UK server.
- Open the BBC iPlayer site, then log in or create a free account. You’ll need a UK postcode for sign-up, which you can generate online if needed.
- You’re now ready to watch Prisoner 951 in the US.
Prisoner 951 Synopsis

Prisoner 951 is a 2025 series based on the true story of Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe, a British-Iranian woman jailed in Iran, and her husband Richard Ratcliffe, who fights nonstop for her freedom.
The show follows the moment Nazanin is taken, her loneliness in Evin prison, and the emotional breakdown that follows. As Richard searches for answers, he learns the political reasons behind her false charges. He goes public, protests, risks his health, and faces the reality that his wife is caught in a bigger dispute.
Over six years, their marriage, family ties, and public support are pushed to the limit, showing a moving story of love, political pressure, secrecy, and survival. The series often reminds viewers of what it means to watch Prisoner 951 in the US and understand a real case of state hostage-taking.
When Does Prisoner 951 Premiere?
Prisoner 951 premiered on Sunday, November 23, 2025. All four episodes are on BBC iPlayer from 6am, and the TV broadcast begined at 9pm on BBC One.
Prisoner 951 Season 1 Episodes
Here’s the episode list:
Episode 1 – Premiere date: November 23, 2025
Nazanin is suddenly taken at the airport in Iran, and Richard starts looking for answers and refuses to stay quiet.
Episode 2 – Premiere date: November 23, 2025
As Nazanin’s health and emotions decline, Richard learns the deeper political reason behind her false charges.
Episode 3 – Premiere date: November 23, 2025
After months alone, Nazanin meets other prisoners, but her possible freedom is threatened when a careless comment by a British MP causes anger.
Episode 4 – Premiere date: November 23, 2025
As years pass and hope fades, Richard takes extreme steps to fight for her return, and Nazanin’s case reaches an intense final moment.
Prisoner 951 Cast

Here’s the cast list:
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Narges Rashidi | Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe |
| Joseph Samimi | Richard Ratcliffe |
| Farshid Rokey | Supporting Character |
| Additional Supporting Actors | Iranian Prisoners, Officials, Family Members |
Is Prisoner 951 Suitable for All Ages?
Prisoner 951 is best for older viewers because it shows political imprisonment, emotional stress, hunger strikes, and unfair treatment. It is recommended for people aged 15+ since it portrays real events involving trauma and injustice.
On What Devices Can You Watch BBC iPlayer?
BBC iPlayer works on many devices for both streaming and offline viewing, making it easy to watch Prisoner 951 in the US on your preferred device.
| Device Category | Supported Devices |
|---|---|
| Smart TVs | Samsung, LG, Sony, Panasonic, Hisense |
| Streaming Devices | Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Chromecast |
| Mobile & Tablets | iPhone, iPad, Android phones and tablets |
| Computers | Windows PC, macOS browsers |
| Gaming Consoles | PlayStation and Xbox with iPlayer app |
FAQs
The series was directed by Philippa Lowthorpe, known for her work in drama and documentary, using real stories and detailed research.
Yes, it is based on the upcoming book A Yard of Sky, written by Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Richard Ratcliffe, telling their shared experience.
Nazanin was held for six years, including months alone and a time under house arrest, before she returned home.
Yes, it shows the hidden political issue involving an old UK government debt that affected her case and delayed her release.
The show recreates Evin prison using real accounts, showing emotional moments with political prisoners who supported each other. These scenes give important context when you watch Prisoner 951 in the US.
