Robert Carlyle to star in Line of Duty

Robert Carlyle, known for roles in Trainspotting, The Full Monty, and 28 Weeks Later, is set to join the upcoming seventh series of Line of Duty as the guest series lead.

The BAFTA-winning actor will portray Detective Constable Shaun Massie in the next chapter of Jed Mercurio’s acclaimed crime drama, which begins filming this spring. Produced for the BBC by World Productions, the new series will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One next year.

Carlyle joins returning leads Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, and Adrian Dunbar, becoming the first newly announced cast member for series seven. He follows a tradition of notable guest leads, including Kelly Macdonald, Stephen Graham, Thandiwe Newton, Daniel Mays, Keeley Hawes, and Lennie James.

Speaking about his involvement, Carlyle expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Jed Mercurio and praised the strength of the new scripts, describing Shaun Massie as a compelling character he is eager to bring to the screen.

Jed Mercurio welcomed Carlyle to the production, highlighting his admiration for the actor’s work and suggesting viewers can expect a powerful and layered performance that will keep audiences guessing.

Simon Heath of World Productions shared his excitement at working with Carlyle, recalling being impressed by the actor’s performances earlier in his career. Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, also praised the casting, describing Carlyle as an outstanding match for the series.

As previously revealed, AC-12 has been dissolved and restructured as the Inspectorate of Police Standards. In this new landscape, Steve Arnott, Kate Fleming, and Ted Hastings face their most delicate investigation yet.

Shaun Massie is introduced as a Specialist Rifle Officer and seasoned marksman with Tactical Operations Unit 7, tasked with tackling organised crime. Known as a solitary and guarded figure, Massie’s composure is shaken when his superior, DI Dominic Gough, faces allegations of serious misconduct.

Series seven is written and created by Jed Mercurio, who will direct episodes four to six. Jennie Darnell directs the opening episodes, with Ken Horn producing. Executive producers include Mercurio, Simon Heath, and Nick Lambon. Filming will once again take place in Belfast with support from Northern Ireland Screen.

All previous six series of Line of Duty are currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer, with further updates on the new season expected soon.