The Protector

Watch The Protector

  • 2011
  • 1 Season
  • 6.7  (634)

The Protector is an American police procedural drama series that aired on Lifetime from June to September of 2011. Created by Michael Nankin and Jeffrey Bell, the show centers around Gloria Sheppard (played by Ally Walker), a single mother and LAPD homicide detective who balances her personal life with her job while solving crimes in Los Angeles. The show is a combination of drama, comedy, and action that pulls viewers in with its intriguing and emotional storylines.

Gloria is a tough and fearless detective who is respected by her colleagues but has a hard time opening up to people. She is dedicated to her job and takes pride in solving difficult cases, but her personal life is complicated by her strained relationship with her ex-husband, who is also a detective in the same police department. Gloria's two children, Leo (Thomas Robinson) and Nick (Sage Ryan), are her top priority and she struggles to balance their needs with the demands of her job.

Throughout the series, Gloria and her partner, Michelle Dulcett (Tisha Campbell-Martin), work to solve a variety of cases, including homicides, kidnappings, robberies, and drug busts. Some of these cases hit close to home for Gloria, as they involve her family or friends. She also deals with office politics, as she is often at odds with her superiors and colleagues. Despite these challenges, she never loses sight of her goal to protect and serve the citizens of Los Angeles.

The Protector is known for its strong female lead, as well as its portrayal of a working single mother. The show tackles issues such as sexism, racism, and discrimination in the workplace, as Gloria fights for her place in a male-dominated profession. The show also explores the challenges of balancing work and family, as Gloria struggles to be a good mother while also being a successful detective. These themes resonate with viewers and have made The Protector a cult favorite.

One of the show's strengths is its supporting cast, which includes Miguel Ferrer as Gloria's boss, Lieutenant Felix Valdez, and Chris Payne Gilbert as Gloria's ex-husband, Frank. These characters add depth and complexity to the show, as they have their own personal and professional struggles that intertwine with Gloria's. Gloria also has a love interest, LAPD detective Davey Seaver (Chris Butler), who provides a romantic subplot that is both sweet and complicated.

Another notable aspect of The Protector is its depiction of the city of Los Angeles. The show takes advantage of its setting to explore the diversity and complexity of the city, showcasing its different neighborhoods, cultures, and social issues. It also features a vibrant soundtrack that includes songs from artists such as The Black Keys and Death Cab for Cutie.

Despite its many strengths, The Protector only lasted one season on Lifetime. The show received mixed reviews from critics, who praised the performances and the show's attempt to tackle complex issues, but criticized its formulaic plot and lack of originality. Viewers, however, were more positive, and the show has since gained a cult following.

In conclusion, The Protector is a police procedural drama that offers a unique and compelling take on the genre. Its strong female lead, nuanced supporting cast, and exploration of complex themes make it a must-watch for fans of crime shows. While it may not have been a critical darling, it has certainly earned a place in the hearts of its fans.

The Protector is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (13 episodes). The series first aired on June 12, 2011.

The Protector
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Seasons
Safe
13. Safe
September 19, 2011
Gloria and Michelle investigate the murder of a bookstore owner who had a hippie lifestyle that hid dark secrets. Meanwhile, Rush considers telling Michelle how he feels about her, and Gloria invites Brennan over for a family dinner.
Ghosts
12. Ghosts
September 12, 2011
Gloria will testify for the district attorney. Detectives Duclett and Rush investigate the robbery of a high-stakes poker game.
Blood
11. Blood
August 29, 2011
A bartender's murder leads Gloria and Michelle to a family owned Mexican restaurant where they unearth a web of jealousy and betrayal amongst the siblings. Meanwhile, Gloria's mother (Patty Duke) wears Davey and the boys out on her extended visit.
Rats
10. Rats
August 22, 2011
Gloria and Michelle investigate the death of a lab researcher which causes them to believe it was a drug-related murder.
Affairs
9. Affairs
August 15, 2011
A woman with a history of dating policemen is murdered, and all signs point to a cop as the killer. Meanwhile, Davey receives a lot of attention from the women in the neighborhood giving Gloria a huge headache.
Bangs
8. Bangs
August 8, 2011
Gloria and Michelle enter posh territory when they investigate the death of a womanizing, hairstylist to the elite. At home, Davey's constant sneaking out irks Gloria and pushes her to find out what exactly he's been up to late at night.
Wings
7. Wings
August 1, 2011
A murder of a young woman sends Gloria and Michelle into a world of kinky sex parties. Gloria and Davey's lives are interrupted by an unexpected visit from their mother.
Beef
6. Beef
July 24, 2011
When the owner of a popular food truck is found charred to death, Gloria and Michelle's investigation leads them to a world full of hostility and bitter rivalries within the food truck community.
Revisions
5. Revisions
July 17, 2011
When a well-known plastic surgeon is murdered at his hillside estate, Gloria and Michelle dig through a growing list of suspects to catch his killer.
Spoon
4. Spoon
July 10, 2011
When a young couple, known as the "Newlywed Bandits", are found dead in their honeymoon suite on the morning they were to report to jail, all signs suggest a double suicide. However, Gloria and Michelle think otherwise. They investigate the romantic lives of the couple, leading to some interesting conversations about love and relationships. Back at home, Gloria deals with her son, Nick, who is obsessively texting with a girl.
Class
3. Class
June 26, 2011
When a prestigious private school professor is stabbed to death, Gloria and Michelle discover what parents, students, and professors will do be "accepted."
Help
2. Help
June 19, 2011
Gloria and Michelle investigate the brutal murder of a controversial fashion titan and question whether it's an isolated incident. Meanwhile, Gloria's brother Davey begins dating the babysitter.
Pilot
1. Pilot
June 12, 2011
Gloria and Michelle take on what appears to be a mugging case, but soon discover evidence suggesting a targeted murder. At home, Gloria's youngest son presents her with a challenge - create an elaborate costume for his school play.
Description
Where to Watch The Protector
The Protector is available for streaming on the Lifetime website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Protector on demand at and ABC.
  • Premiere Date
    June 12, 2011
  • IMDB Rating
    6.7  (634)
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