Acclaimed Scottish actor Robert Carlyle is set to join the cast of the popular BBC crime thriller, Line of Duty, as a guest lead in its eagerly anticipated seventh series. Known for his roles in Trainspotting and The Full Monty, Carlyle will portray specialist rifle officer Detective Constable Shaun Massie. The series, created by Jed Mercurio, has captivated audiences since its debut in 2012, and the upcoming installment promises to maintain its gripping narrative.

A New Chapter for AC-12

The seventh series will see the anti-corruption unit AC-12 rebranded as the Inspectorate of Police Standards. The storyline will follow the team as they tackle organized crime groups, with Carlyle's character, a veteran marksman described as a "gruff loner," playing a pivotal role. However, the plot thickens when his superior, Detective Inspector Dominic Gough, faces allegations of being a sexual predator, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

Filming and Broadcast Plans

Filming for the new series is scheduled to commence in Belfast this spring, with the show set to air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer next year. Carlyle joins a distinguished cast, including Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, and Adrian Dunbar, who will reprise their roles. The previous series concluded in 2021, drawing over 17 million viewers for its finale, underscoring the show's enduring popularity.

Excitement Surrounding Carlyle's Casting

Both Jed Mercurio and Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, have expressed their enthusiasm for Carlyle's involvement. Mercurio stated, "Robert always brings mesmerizing power and depth to every role. I know viewers will be on the edge of their seats wondering what his character will do next, and why." Salt echoed these sentiments, highlighting Carlyle as a perfect fit for the series.