In a thrilling move for crime drama enthusiasts, Netflix has recently added all six seasons of the critically acclaimed British series Line of Duty to its expansive library, sparking a frenzy among viewers who are calling it one of the most twisted and betrayal-laden shows ever to grace television screens. Originally aired on the BBC from 2012 to 2021, this police procedural, crafted by the masterful Jed Mercurio, has found a new home on the streaming giant, captivating a global audience with its intricate plots and morally ambiguous characters. As fans dive into the murky world of police corruption, many are jokingly suggesting that watching this much deception should be illegal—such is the intensity of the series’ grip.
Line of Duty centers on the Anti-Corruption Unit 12 (AC-12), a specialized team within a fictional police force tasked with rooting out crooked officers. Led by the stern yet enigmatic Superintendent Ted Hastings (played with gravitas by Adrian Dunbar), the unit includes the sharp-witted DS Steve Arnott (Martin Compston) and the resourceful DC Kate Fleming (Vicky McClure). Together, they unravel a web of lies, cover-ups, and organized crime links that challenge their loyalties and test the boundaries of justice. Each season introduces a new case, a new suspect, and a deeper dive into the shadowy figure known only as “H”—a senior corrupt officer pulling strings behind the scenes. The result is a rollercoaster of suspense that keeps viewers on edge, second-guessing every twist and turn.
The series kicks off with a bang in its first season, introducing DCI Tony Gates (Lennie James), a seemingly flawless officer whose suspiciously perfect record catches AC-12’s attention. What begins as a routine investigation spirals into a high-stakes thriller as Gates’ personal life unravels, revealing an affair and a dangerous game of manipulation. This sets the tone for the show’s signature style: a blend of procedural grit and psychological depth that distinguishes it from typical cop dramas. Subsequent seasons bring in a parade of standout guest stars, including Keeley Hawes as the cunning DI Lindsay Denton, Thandiwe Newton as the calculating DI Roz Huntley, and Jason Watkins as the chilling DI Nigel Morton, each adding layers of intrigue and betrayal to the narrative.
Since its debut on Netflix, Line of Duty has quickly climbed the charts, with viewers taking to social media to express their obsession. One fan posted on X, “Just finished binge-watching all 6 seasons of Line of Duty! What an incredible journey,” while another hailed it as “the best police procedural I’ve ever seen in my life.” The show’s 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes underscores its critical acclaim, though some have noted that the later seasons, particularly the divisive Season 6 finale, didn’t fully satisfy all expectations. Despite this, the consensus remains that the series is a must-watch, with its complex character arcs and unexpected plot twists earning it a cult following.
The addition of all 36 episodes to Netflix marks a significant moment for the show, which had faced distribution challenges in the past. After its initial run on BBC Two—where it became the channel’s highest-rated drama in a decade—it moved to BBC One for its later seasons, reflecting its growing popularity. However, international availability was sporadic, with Netflix losing the rights temporarily in 2020 due to issues with the distributor Kew Media. Now, with the full series accessible, fans both new and old are reveling in the opportunity to experience the saga uninterrupted. The timing couldn’t be better, as rumors of a potential Season 7 filming in 2025 have reignited excitement, with cast members like Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar hinting at their willingness to return.
What sets Line of Duty apart is its unflinching exploration of police corruption, a theme that resonates with real-world issues while maintaining a fictional edge. Jed Mercurio, the show’s creator, has cited influences from true stories, such as the 2005 shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes, to ground the narrative in a sense of realism. This approach, combined with his decision to kill off key characters and keep audiences guessing, has kept the series fresh across its six-season run. The moral ambiguity of its characters—where even the “good guys” are flawed—adds a layer of relatability, as Mercurio himself has noted, reflecting a world more complicated than simple good versus evil.
Season by season, the show builds on its central mystery. Season 1 introduces the AC-12 team and Gates’ downfall, while Season 2 brings the unforgettable Lindsay Denton, whose wrongful conviction and eventual alliance with Steve Arnott showcase Keeley Hawes’ commanding performance. Season 3 delves into the traumatic aftermath of a sergeant’s death, revealing a list of abusers, and Season 4 pits the team against Roz Huntley, whose investigation into a serial killer hides her own secrets. Season 5 escalates the stakes with a high-profile murder case, and Season 6 attempts to resolve the “H” mystery, culminating in the controversial reveal of DI Ian Buckells (Nigel Boyle) as a low-key mastermind. While some fans found this twist underwhelming, others appreciated its commentary on how incompetence can mask corruption—a theme Hastings himself articulates.
The show’s impact extends beyond its narrative. Its interrogation scenes have become iconic, with the phrase “Urgent Exit Required” entering pop culture lexicon after a dramatic Season 3 climax. The series has also garnered numerous awards, including BAFTA nominations and wins at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards, cementing its status as a British television landmark. Composer Carly Paradis and director Andrew John McClelland have been recognized for their contributions, while actors like Lennie James and Martin Compston have received individual accolades for their performances.
For new viewers, the recommendation is clear: clear your schedule. The series’ binge-worthy nature is evident from the outset, with each episode ending on a cliffhanger that demands immediate continuation. Fans advise starting with Season 1 to appreciate the character development, though some suggest Seasons 1-3 are the strongest, with a slight dip in quality from Season 4 onward. Still, the consensus is that the journey is worth it, even if the finale leaves some questions unanswered. The availability on Netflix, alongside BBC iPlayer in the UK, ensures accessibility, though a TV license is required for the latter.
The cultural conversation around Line of Duty has also evolved with its Netflix release. Viewers are debating the “H” reveal, with theories suggesting the story might not be over, especially given hints of a Season 7. Adrian Dunbar’s recent comments on Good Morning Britain about potential updates within months have fueled speculation, while Martin Compston has emphasized the need for a compelling story to justify a return. This uncertainty keeps the fanbase engaged, with many hoping for a resolution to the lingering organized crime syndicate plotline.
Beyond Line of Duty, Netflix’s crime drama slate offers ample alternatives for those who finish the series. Shows like The Sinner, with Bill Pullman’s introspective Detective Harry Ambrose, or Your Honor, featuring Bryan Cranston as a judge entangled in crime, provide similar thrills. However, Line of Duty’s unique focus on internal police corruption and its ensemble cast give it an edge, making it a standout addition to the platform.
As of July 10, 2025, the buzz around Line of Duty shows no sign of fading. With its full archive now streaming, Netflix has handed fans a treasure trove of suspense that’s equal parts thrilling and treacherous. Whether you’re a newcomer or a returning viewer, the series promises a journey into the heart of betrayal that’s hard to resist—and perhaps, as fans jest, too intense to be legal. So, grab your popcorn, brace for late nights, and prepare to question every badge on screen. This is one crime drama that’s worth the watch, twists and all.
