In a surprising move, ITV has announced that they are not renewing Ridley, the police drama starring Line of Duty legend Adrian Dunbar. Despite solid ratings and widespread acclaim, the series will not return for a third season, leaving fans devastated.
The show, which debuted in 2022, followed DI Ridley, a widowed detective grappling with personal struggles, including a mental breakdown that saw him forced into retirement. His journey took viewers on thrilling investigations, alongside his protégé, Carol Farman, played by Bronagh Waugh. With its powerful performances, particularly by Dunbar, and a gripping storyline, Ridley quickly became a fan favourite.
Despite its success, ITV has confirmed there are no plans to continue the show. A spokesperson for the network said, “We’d like to extend our thanks to creator Paul Matthew Thompson, executive producer Jonathan Fisher, and the entire team for two successful series. However, at this time, there are no plans to return to Ridley.”
A Shocking Decision for Fans
The cancellation comes as a shock to both fans and Dunbar himself. Having seen great success in the US, where the series garnered impressive ratings, Adrian expressed hopes for another series in a previous interview. He stated, “The programme did very good numbers when it was shown in America, and I know that PBS would love us to film another series.”
The two seasons of Ridley followed the troubled detective as he navigated complex murder cases, with the second season diving into a jewellery heist turned deadly. The show also allowed Dunbar to showcase his musical talents, with each episode ending with his character performing at a jazz club, adding a unique touch to the drama.
What’s Next for Adrian Dunbar?
While Ridley may have come to an end, fans of Adrian Dunbar have something to look forward to—his return to the iconic role of Superintendent Ted Hastings in the much-anticipated seventh series of Line of Duty.
The new season, set to begin filming this spring in Belfast, promises to be as thrilling as ever. AC-12 is now the Inspectorate of Police Standards, and the original team—Dunbar’s Hastings, Martin Compston’s Steve Arnott, and Vicky McClure’s Kate Fleming—are back to tackle a new wave of police corruption. After the record-breaking finale of series six, Line of Duty is set to reignite its massive fanbase with its gripping new narrative.
While we say goodbye to Ridley, Adrian Dunbar’s legacy in British television continues to thrive. Fans will eagerly be watching when Line of Duty returns to screens later this year.
