The finale of Line of Duty series six left millions of fans disappointed, but a lifeline has been thrown that there may yet be another series. The episode, watched by an average of 12.8 million people, became the most-watched drama episode in 20 years, yet words like 'disappointing' and 'underwhelmed' trended on Twitter.
Nigel Boyle, who played DSU Ian Buckells, the unmasked 'H', responded to criticism, saying: 'Fans have been brilliant... there is always going to be some element of disappointment. But you can't have every series with a big shoot out... sometimes the subtler message is more important.' Boyle found out he was H during lockdown when writer Jed Mercurio told him on a call.
Despite mixed reactions, BBC chief content officer Charlotte Moore said: 'I'm looking forward to having a conversation with the team about where we go next.' Many questions remain: Could Buckells be given witness protection? Is there a chance he isn't actually H? Some fans theorise that Carmichael, who keeps denying police corruption, could still be the top dog.
Other unresolved plotlines include whether Corbett is actually Hastings' son, and what will happen to Buckells in prison. The force has applied for public interest immunity in his case, meaning evidence of institutional corruption may never be heard in court.
