Derek Thompson Returns to Belfast in BBC Drama "Blue Lights" Series 2

Renowned actor Derek Thompson, known for his roles in iconic productions like "Casualty" and "The Long Good Friday," is set to make a homecoming to Belfast in the upcoming second series of the hit BBC drama "Blue Lights."

The announcement comes on the heels of BBC Director of Drama Lindsay Salt's revelation that the broadcaster has greenlit two more seasons of the Belfast-based police drama, produced by Two Cities Television. The second series is slated to premiere on BBC One and iPlayer this spring.

Thompson will portray retired police officer Robin Graham, whose past comes back to haunt him when trainee solicitor Jen Robinson, played by Hannah McClean, delves into a decades-old case with dangerous present-day implications.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Thompson shared, "I loved the first series of Blue Lights and thought, as did the majority of my friends and colleagues, that it was the best new TV series of last year. I was thrilled and excited when I got the invitation to take part in series two."

The Two Cities team echoed Thompson's sentiments, stating, "We are delighted to have Derek Thompson back working with us in his native Belfast. It is an honor to have him as part of the Blue Lights family."

In the upcoming season, the characters face new challenges as Belfast contends with the aftermath of a major gangland feud. Grace, Annie, and Tommy, played by Siân Brooke, Katherine Devlin, and Nathan Braniff respectively, navigate the complexities of police work amidst escalating tensions.

Reprising their roles alongside Thompson are a stellar ensemble cast including Siân Brooke, Martin McCann, Katherine Devlin, Nathan Braniff, Joanne Crawford, Andi Osho, and Hannah McClean. Joining the cast for the second series are Frank Blake, Seamus O'Hara, and Seána Kerslake.

"Blue Lights" debuted to critical acclaim, attracting over 7 million viewers and ranking among the top ten new drama series of 2023 in the UK. With more than half of its audience tuning in via BBC iPlayer, the series emerged as Northern Ireland's biggest drama of the year.

Co-created, written, and directed by Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, "Blue Lights" is a testament to the vibrant storytelling emerging from Northern Ireland. Supported by Northern Ireland Screen, the series is a collaboration between Two Cities Television, Gallagher Films, and the BBC.

As anticipation builds for the return of "Blue Lights," viewers can expect another gripping season of intrigue, drama, and the complexities of life in Belfast's law enforcement community.