UK’s defining 2010s cop drama; watercooler TV that scaled to finale mania.
Why it matters
Episode guide
36 episodes across 6 seasons — titles, air dates, and synopses.
At a glance
Anti-corruption unit AC-12 interrogates bent coppers while institutional rot climbs higher. Long interview scenes are gladiatorial. Procedural paranoia as sport.
Network & studio
- BBC — broadcast network
Why watch now
Watch for the cultural DNA of the 2010s — and the star power that made living rooms feel like red carpets.
Cultural impact
UK’s defining 2010s cop drama; watercooler TV that scaled to finale mania.
Creators
Jed Mercurio
Key cast
- Martin Compston as Steve Arnott
- Vicky McClure as Kate Fleming
- Adrian Dunbar as Ted Hastings
- Lennie James as Tony Gates
- Thandie Newton as Roz Huntley
- Stephen Graham as John Corbett
Flash facts
- BBC police drama by Jed Mercurio; phenomenon by mid/late 2010s.
- Series 6 finale drew huge UK overnight audiences.
- Hastings’ catchphrases entered British vernacular.
- Export hit that proved dialogue-heavy thrillers could be event TV.
FAQ
What network aired Line of Duty?
Line of Duty is associated with BBC (2012–2021).
Why is Line of Duty in the TV Flash top 100 for the 2010s?
UK’s defining 2010s cop drama; watercooler TV that scaled to finale mania.
Who are the key names behind Line of Duty?
Creators and principals include Jed Mercurio.
Official & further reading
External sites for further reading — TV Flash is not affiliated with these networks or studios.
Back to the decade
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Related & side shows
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Killing Eve
Assassin and investigator obsession spiral — fashion kills, literally.
Sherlock
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Fleabag
Fourth-wall confession as weapon — hot priest discourse included.