Robert Carlyle joins Line of Duty in series seven | Robert Carlyle

Robert Carlyle has been announced as joining the cast of Line of Duty to play a major guest role in the new series.

The actor follows his Trainspotting co-star Kelly MacDonald, as well as Stephen Graham – creator and star of Adolescent – and Westworld actor Thandiwe Newton, in stepping into the role.

Carlyle, also known for films such as The Full Monty and 28 Weeks Later, will play specialist rifle officer DC Sean Massey in the seventh series of the BBC show.

Carlisle said he was a “huge fan” of series creator Jed Mercurio’s work, adding: “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to join this exceptional crew on series seven of Line of Duty.

“The scripts for the series are excellent and will fully maintain the quality that audiences have come to expect from this fantastic show. DC Macy is an extraordinary character and I look forward to bringing him to life.”

Martin Compston, Vicky McClure and Adrian Dunbar will reprise their roles in the sequel, which is due to air next year. The anti-corruption unit will follow AC-12, having been disbanded and rebranded as the Police Standards Inspectorate.

Carlisle’s character, a veteran sniper described as a “brusque recluse,” will be tasked with taking down organized crime groups as part of Tactical Operations Unit 7 (TO-7). His boss, De Dominique Goff, is accused of being a sexual predator.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled that Robert Carlyle will star in series seven as specialist rifle officer Sean Massey,” Mercurio said.

“I have been a huge fan of Robert’s work for many years and working with him will be a career highlight. Robert always brings a charming power and depth to every role; I know viewers will be on the edge of their seats wondering what his character will do next, and why.”

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, said: “Sometimes one actor seems so well-suited that you can’t imagine anyone else. Robert Carlyle is one of our greatest actors and is a perfect fit for the Line of Duty phenomenon.”

The seventh Line of Duty series will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer next year.