The BBC One drama Riot Women concluded its first series last night, leaving viewers both satisfied and eagerly anticipating a potential second series (BBC, Radio Times). Written by Sally Wainwright, known for Happy Valley and Last Tango in Halifax, the six-part series focuses on five middle-aged women navigating life’s challenges, career reinvention, and the menopause—all while forming an unlikely rock band.

Though their personalities couldn’t be more different, the women’s lives are interwoven through struggles, trauma, and ultimately, friendship.

Plot Overview: From Despair to a Band

The series opens with a harrowing scene: Beth, played by Joanna Scanlan, a lonely mother, contemplates suicide. Her plan is interrupted when her friend Jess (Lorraine Ashbourne) calls, inviting her to join a fledgling band. This seemingly small gesture becomes a turning point, introducing Beth to the other women: retired police officer Holly (Tamsin Greig), her midwife sister Yvonne (Amelia Bullmore), and the enigmatic Kitty (Rosalie Craig), a talented singer hiding a devastating past (The Guardian).

The series explores how these women, united by chance and circumstance, find solace and purpose in music while confronting personal demons.

Beth and Kitty: A Shocking Family Connection

A major storyline reveals that Kitty, the band’s lead singer, has a son Tom, whom she gave up for adoption 30 years ago. Beth, who also adopted a son of the same age, realizes the staggering truth: Kitty is her son’s birth mother. The revelation sends shockwaves through their lives, further complicated by Kitty’s traumatic childhood, including abuse and teenage pregnancy at age 12 (Radio Times).

Kitty and Tom eventually bond as she opens up about her past, while their shared affection for Beth strengthens the trio’s relationship.

Nisha’s Ordeal and Pursuit of Justice

Another gripping subplot centers on Nisha, Holly’s former police colleague, who endures escalating abuse at the hands of corrupt officer Alec “Rudy” Rudenko. Following harassment and assault at work, Holly attempts to protect Nisha, only for her colleague to suffer violent retaliation from Rudy. Nisha survives a vicious attack but is left traumatized, blaming Holly initially for triggering the assault. By the final episode, Holly provides Nisha with evidence of Rudy’s corruption, positioning her to seek justice—though the show leaves the outcome unresolved, suggesting room for a second series (The Guardian, BBC).

Kitty’s Self-Destructive Spiral and Redemption

Kitty’s introduction portrays a woman in crisis: shoplifting, self-harm, and confrontations with law enforcement. Her downward spiral is triggered by Gavin, a manipulative boyfriend who arranges for her assault and attempts to intimidate her into silence. After retaliating and facing potential jail time, Kitty is ultimately supported by Beth. During the court hearing, Gavin is deemed an unreliable witness, allowing Kitty to avoid prison. This moment represents a turning point, solidifying her path toward personal recovery and stability (Radio Times).

The Band’s Journey and Triumph

The Riot Women band experiences ups and downs. Initially struggling to gel, they find success in a local talent contest, attracting the attention of a promoter. However, Kitty’s continued instability threatens their progress. Eventually, she regains her focus, the band reunites, and they perform a triumphant set at the local festival, marking both personal and collective victory. Their journey highlights resilience, friendship, and the power of shared creative expression (The Guardian).

Series One Ending and Teasers for Season Two

The finale leaves several storylines open for exploration. Kitty receives a call from her incarcerated father, Keith, who finally provides the names of three men who abused her as a child. Kitty hints at taking matters into her own hands, saying:

"I might just deal with that myself."

While the BBC has not officially confirmed a second series, the narrative clearly sets the stage for continued drama, redemption arcs, and musical triumphs (BBC, Radio Times).

Conclusion

Riot Women succeeds in blending hard-hitting drama with moments of hope, humor, and music. The series not only shines a light on the menopause and midlife challenges but also explores trauma, justice, and the healing power of female friendships. With cliffhangers and unresolved arcs, fans are left eagerly awaiting what might come next.