Robert Carlyle to play detective constable in highly-anticipated drama return

Trainspotting and The Full Monty star Robert Carlyle has been cast as guest series lead in the much-anticipated return of BBC1 hit Line of Duty.

The first new cast member to be unveiled for the seventh series of World Productions’ police corruption thriller, he will play Detective Constable Shaun Massie, joining regular cast members Martin Compston, Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar as they start filming this spring.

Carlyle said: “Having been a huge admirer of Jed Mercurio’s work for many years, I’m delighted to be given the opportunity to join such an exceptional cast for series seven of Line of Duty.

“The scripts for the series are excellent and will absolutely maintain the quality that the audience have come to expect from this fantastic show. DC Massie is an extraordinary character and I look forward to bringing him to life.”

Creator Jed Mercurio said: “I’ve been a huge fan of Robert’s work for many years and it will be a career highlight to work with him. Robert always brings mesmerising power and depth to every role; I know viewers will be on the edge of their seats wondering what his character will do next, and why.”

Carlyle, who recently played another police role as real-life Met Police detective Dave Cook in ITV’s The Hack, follows in the footsteps of previous Line of Duty guest stars including Kelly Macdonald, Stephen Graham, Thandiwe Newton, Daniel Mays, Keeley Hawes and Lennie James.

World Productions chief executive and creative director Simon Heath added: “As a young script editor starting out in the 90s, I was blown away by Robert’s stunning performances in Trainspotting and Cracker, so it’s a particular thrill to be working with him now.”

The drama, which last aired in 2021, is set to land on BBC1 next year.