ITV I Fought The Law viewers left distracted by Sheridan Smith's accent in new drama

Sheridan Smith's drama I Fought The Law has received widespread praise, but some viewers have questioned the accents.

The star takes on the role of Ann Ming in the true crime series, whose 22-year-old daughter Julie Hogg was murdered in 1989. The programme chronicles Ann's relentless pursuit of justice, which ultimately led to changes in double jeopardy laws after Julie's killer, William Dunlop, walked free from two separate trials.

Julie died in Billingham, County Durham, with the ITV drama shot throughout the North East. Filming took place in Newcastle city centre, Shiremoor, Teesside, Northumberland, and County Durham.

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Whilst audiences have been captivated by the four-episode series, some have questioned whether the regional accents hit the mark, reports Chronicle Live.

"I love Sheridan Smith, but this Billingham accent is upsetting me!" one viewer confessed on X.

Another commented on the social media platform, "I'm trying to watch, but the accents are so distracting. "

Another fan asked: "Why do all these Cleveland police officers have Geordie accents?"

"The Teesside accent seems to be the most difficult to get right for an actor not from Teesside," another viewer observed.

Nevertheless, most felt the accents didn't detract from the drama and commended Sheridan, who was born in Lincolnshire, for her depiction of Ann and her unwavering battle.

One viewer commented: "Coming from the neighbouring town, I know what happened in I Fought The Law and was in tears within minutes of it starting. Well played, Sheridan Smith."

"Those focusing on her accent are completely missing the point," they went on. "I have never met her, but I hold Ann Ming in the highest regard. She is an extraordinary woman."

Another shared on X: "This is absolutely heartbreaking. A tragic true story. Amazing performance from Sheridan Smith."

I Fought The Law is airing on ITV.