Nathan Braniff, who plays Tommy Foster in the BBC crime drama Blue Lights, has paid an emotional tribute to his co-stars and crew as the fourth series concluded, prompting fans to call for a fifth.
The Belfast-based show follows new recruits Grace, Annie and Tommy as they learn the ropes in a high-pressure environment. The latest instalment picked up events three years into the officers' careers, as the trio is pushed to their limits while confronting what is described as "the greatest threat they have ever encountered".
An Emotional Instagram Post
In an Instagram post, Braniff wrote: "Yo yo yo guys. My last Blue Lights post ever… maybe. Few BTS (behind the scenes) from the last episodes of series 4. Episode 6 out tonight. Few important things I need to say. To Declan Law, Two Cities TV, Gallagher Films NI, thanks for this tremendous opportunity, it was a childhood dream to be in a show like this."
He added: "To Marty Mccan, Sian Brooke, Katherine Devlin, I wouldn’t have had as much fun if it wasn’t for these OGs. We’ve shared the maddest experiences and become mates for life. To every single person who worked on this show, what an experience, thank you all. And lastly, to young Tommy Foster, the stars aligned for us on this one, I hope I see you again soon."
Co-Stars Show Support
His fellow cast members were quick to respond in the replies. Katherine Devlin posted: "Love you my bro" and Siân Brooke said: "Aw Nathan….. I’m crying!!!! Love ya in buckets and spades xxx." Declan Lawn replied: "It has been a privilege to write for an actor as talented and as professional as you. Thank you for raising the bar every time."
Fans also shared their hope that the series will return. One person said: "I am going to need you all to come back for series 5. I will literally fund it myself." Another added: "Unbelievable actor. My favourite show and definitely a show that has you on the edge of your seats! This better not be the end, I need more." Someone else agreed: "WHOA……… this cannot be the end of this great series!!! Why in the world would anybody cancel this show when it is so good and so popular??"
Fans Revisit the Show
Others admitted they were already revisiting the series from the start, with one saying: "The best TV series. We've finished S4 and started rewatching S1 again Really going to miss this show." The Traitors winner Rachel Duffy commented: "Got a bit emotional swiping through these photos! What a show and what a cast! Have absolutely loved watching you all. Brilliant series Nathan."
Blue Lights is streaming on BBC iPlayer.