The long-awaited announcement that Jed Mercurio’s police corruption saga, Line of Duty, is to return for its first series since 2021 has been greeted with the sort of feverish excitement usually reserved for papal successions or Oasis reunions, reports BritPanorama.
Despite the anticipation, the reveal regarding the identity of “H” was met with disappointment, as it turned out to be an insignificant character. Long before this anticlimactic moment, fans noted that the series had begun to feel as if it were spinning its wheels, lacking the fresh momentum that characterized its earlier seasons.
While the initial episodes of Line of Duty were groundbreaking in their exploration of police drama, it is now viewed as one among several contenders in the genre. Recent shows have emerged that some critics argue eclipse it, especially when compared to both American classics such as Hill Street Blues and The Wire and subtitled hits like The Bridge.
Blue Lights (2023-present)
Set against the backdrop of post-Good Friday Agreement Northern Ireland, Blue Lights has emerged as a gripping, Bafta-winning police procedural that highlights the challenges of policing in the region. The show features the story of a young Catholic rookie, Constable Annie Conlon, who navigates the complexities of joining a police service traditionally viewed with suspicion by her own community.
Co-creators Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, both from Northern Ireland and with journalism experience, have crafted a narrative that does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by police officers in a divided society.
Happy Valley (2014-2023)
Sarah Lancashire’s performance in Happy Valley has been widely praised, showcasing her role as Catherine Cawood, a police sergeant facing personal and professional crises. The series has been noted for its realistic portrayal of violence and its exploration of social issues, resonating deeply with viewers. Despite mixed opinions on its graphic content, it is regarded as one of the best television dramas of the century.
Unforgotten (2015-present)
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Unforgotten has redefined the cold-case crime drama genre, combining engaging characters and compelling narratives. The series, which features DI Sunny Khan and his late partner, DCI Cassie Stuart, examines historical crimes with a fresh perspective, ensuring that the genre evolves without losing its core themes of justice and memory.
Sherwood (2022-2024)
