The BBC crime drama Blue Lights, set in Belfast, has been hailed as 'better than Line of Duty' by viewers and critics alike. Co-created by Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, the series first premiered in 2023 and follows officers at the fictional Blackthorn police station. Now spanning three seasons, the show has earned widespread acclaim and a loyal fan following.
Plot and Characters
The first season introduces probationary officers Constable Grace Ellis (Siân Brooke), Constable Annie Conlon (Katherine Devlin), and Constable Thomas 'Tommy' Foster (Nathan Braniff) as they adjust to life in the force. Each season follows the trio as they tackle different cases and find themselves in the line of fire, delivering a raw and authentic portrayal of policing in Northern Ireland.
Critical and Audience Reception
Season one of Blue Lights holds a score of 91% on Rotten Tomatoes, season two is rated at 93%, and season three has achieved a perfect 100% rating. On IMDb, viewers have shared glowing reviews. One fan described it as 'an outstanding series that immediately stands out for its originality and authenticity,' adding that it 'delivers a gripping, tense, and deeply engaging story.' Another commented: 'I constantly see people gushing over Line of Duty and Happy Valley... I just finished season one of Blue Lights... and it was so much better.' A third viewer called it 'one of the highest quality shows I've seen in quite a while, driven by a superb storyline and excellent performances.'
Streaming Availability
Blue Lights is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
