ITV Shelves Adrian Dunbar’s Police Drama Ridley Despite Strong Ratings 📺❌

Disappointing News for Fans 💔

In a surprising turn of events, ITV has confirmed that it will not be bringing back Ridley for a third series. The police drama, which premiered in 2022 and starred Line Of Duty’s Adrian Dunbar, has been quietly shelved despite a successful run and strong ratings.

In a statement to the Daily Mail, an ITV spokesperson revealed, “There are currently no plans to return to Ridley. We’d like to extend our thanks to creator and writer Paul Matthew Thompson, executive producer Jonathan Fisher, and the team at West Road Pictures for producing two successful series.”

The Show’s Premise & Popularity 🕵️‍♂️🎶

Ridley followed DI Ridley, a widowed homicide officer who faced personal struggles after a mental breakdown and was reluctantly made redundant. The series also focused on his uneasy relationship with his replacement, Carol Farman (Bronagh Waugh), and featured Ridley working with her on murder investigations.

What made the series unique was its exploration of Ridley’s retirement, where he spent time as a co-owner of a jazz club and pursued his passion for music, often ending each episode by singing a song.

Why No Third Series? 🤔

While the show saw decent ratings, particularly in the US where it aired on PBS, ITV has made the decision not to continue the series further. Fans were hoping for more episodes, especially since Adrian Dunbar himself had expressed his desire for the story to continue, citing the good reception it received in America.

Adrian Dunbar, 67, shared his hopes, saying: “There’s definitely more to be said about Alex Ridley, his troubled life, and the team of detectives with whom he works. I would love to film more.”

What’s Next for Adrian Dunbar? 🎬✨

While Ridley may be ending, fans will still get to enjoy Adrian Dunbar’s talent as he returns to the iconic role of Superintendent Ted Hastings in Line of Duty.

Line of Duty is officially set to return for a seventh series, much to the excitement of its loyal fanbase. The hit thriller, created by Jed Mercurio, was last on screens in 2021. After a controversial ending in series six, fans are eager to see how the new series will unfold. The upcoming season will see the rebranded Inspectorate of Police Standards, with Adrian Dunbar, Martin Compston, and Vicky McClure reprising their roles.

A Sad Goodbye, But Hope for More 🌟

Although Ridley will not continue, fans are hopeful that Adrian Dunbar’s return in Line of Duty will keep them captivated. As for Ridley, it remains a bittersweet chapter for those who enjoyed the detective drama, but at least it left behind two successful series.