The award-winning Northern Irish police drama Blue Lights returns for a fourth series this November. The series has been a hit with audiences and critics alike, striking a sweet spot with its tight scripts, top-notch performances, and unique setting. Much like Toronto, Belfast is often used by filmmakers as a stand-in for other locations, and it’s refreshing to see the city for what it is, with all its vast history and specific issues.
Blue Lights, co-created by Declan Lawn and Adam Patteron, follows rookie officers Grace Ellis (Siân Brooke), Annie Conlon (Katherine Devlin), and Tommy Foster (Nathan Braniff) as they confront divided urban communities and local gangs, while navigating internal politics and pressure. It won Best Drama at the 2025 BAFTA Awards, and is nominated again—along with Brooke for Best Actress—in 2026.
Last time we saw Grace, she had survived a near-lethal attack and was finally in a stable relationship with her partner Stevie, looking forward to a calmer future. But anyone familiar with the genre knows that long-term serenity is a pipe dream. So what’s in store for her and the rest of the force at Blackthorn Station?
That Shelf’s Managing Editor Emma Badame sat down with star Brooke and co-creator and writer Lawn to talk about the popularity of the show, filming in Belfast, and what to expect for Constable Grace Ellis this time around.
Blue Lights Series 4 debuts on BritBox on Thursday, November 12, with new episodes weekly.
