Taj Atwal stars as Nisha Lal in the highly regarded series “Riot Women,” which has captured the attention of viewers and critics alike. The six-part drama, which airs on BBC One, explores the lives of five menopausal women who come together to form a punk rock band. Atwal, already known for her roles in shows like “Hullraisers” and “Line of Duty,” describes her involvement with “Riot Women” as a significant moment in her career.
Taj Atwal’s Role in “Riot Women”
In “Riot Women,” Atwal plays Nisha, a police officer who faces various challenges both at work and in her personal life. Nisha has a strong bond with her former partner Holly, portrayed by Tamsin Greig. However, her professional journey takes a turn when she experiences harassment from fellow officer Rudy (Ben Batt). This disturbing incident serves as a focal point in Nisha’s storyline.
Real-Life Inspirations and Current Issues
The series reflects pressing issues such as misogyny and sexism within law enforcement. Atwal notes that the storyline resonates deeply with recent social events and discussions—particularly in light of the report from Lady Louise Casey revealing systemic problems in the Metropolitan Police.
Filming Amidst Social Unrest
While filming last year, Atwal experienced a whirlwind of societal changes, particularly in relation to the UK’s anti-immigration riots. The actress expressed her concerns about the timing, acknowledging the sensitive nature of the material. “It feels like the right time to tell this story,” she said, highlighting the importance of authentic representation of current realities.
Collaboration with Sally Wainwright
Working with acclaimed writer Sally Wainwright was a highlight for Atwal. Wainwright’s careful crafting of Nisha’s character and story reflects a real understanding of police culture. Atwal felt a responsibility to portray these narratives accurately, ensuring they echoed the experiences of real-life officers.
Audience Impact and Feedback
Atwal has received feedback from fans of all genders, indicating that “Riot Women” transcends its target demographic. “I haven’t had an experience like it,” she remarked when discussing the series’ reception.
The Future of “Riot Women”
As for the possibility of a second season, Atwal expressed interest in exploring the continued ramifications of Nisha’s story, especially her tumultuous relationship with Rudy. “It would be interesting to see where this goes,” she commented on the unresolved nature of these plotlines.
Atwal’s Aspirations as a Writer
Beyond her acting career, Taj Atwal is also exploring opportunities behind the camera. She aims to portray diverse stories that go beyond conventional narratives. She references the book “Asians in Britain: 400 Years of History” as a source of inspiration for her future work.
- Series: Riot Women
- Network: BBC One
- Episode Count: Six
- Atwal’s Role: Nisha Lal
- Key Themes: Misogyny, Police Culture, Sisterhood
“Riot Women” airs on Sundays at 9 PM on BBC One, with all episodes available for streaming on iPlayer. As the show continues to evolve, it reflects a rich, nuanced portrayal of female relationships and struggles in contemporary society.
