Adrian Dunbar on why Line of Duty series 7 filming paused

Adrian Dunbar, who stars as Ted Hastings, confirmed filming was put on hold following riots in Belfast earlier this month.

He revealed the disruption during an interview on RTE Radio 1, saying the unrest was linked to the scenes of violence in Northern Ireland.

Adrian Dunbar reveals why Line of Duty’s series 7 paused filming

Adrian said: “We did have to pause for the riots and that wasn’t great.

“There’s a lot of stuff being stirred up in Ireland at the minute and there’s a lot of social media stirred a lot of pots here, and a lot of idle hands sitting around were able to get out of the street.

“I think the demonstration that happened a few days later by the people of Belfast shows you what the real sentiment is here towards immigrants and this is just a small minority of people who are allowed to get on the street, so it was really unfortunate.”

Martin Compston injured on set of Line of Duty

The actor also revealed that his co-star Martin Compston was hurt on set during filming after an incident involving an airsoft gun.

On TV and film sets, airsoft guns are used to replace real weapons.

Despite these setbacks, Dunbar said the biggest challenge so far has been the weather.

He said: “In between the showers, it’s going pretty well – there’s a lot of showers coming in, we’re getting drenched to tell you the truth.”

Line of Duty, created by Jed Mercurio, last aired in 2021, with series six thought to be the show’s conclusion until producers confirmed it would return for series seven.

The sixth series ended with ‘H’ being unmasked as Detective Superintendent Ian Buckells, played by Nigel Boyle.

However, recent reports suggest that twist may not be the end of the story.

Top 10 best British TV series

A source told The Sun: “There was genuine anger about the way series six ended and that was part of the reason that a seventh outing was ordered.

“But this is the first time that there’s been any news on whether they’ll bring back the ‘H’ storyline – and devotees will be thrilled to hear Jed will be giving them just what they want.

Recommended reading:

“Although there is still likely to be a new villain introduced into the new season, just as there has been with every series since the show was launched.

“But the incoming baddie’s storyline is likely to be intertwined with that of ‘H’ in a sensational double-whammy.”

The new series is expected to air in 2027.

Which Line of Duty character is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.