“This is for Belfast”: Blue Lights Wins Best Drama at the BAFTAs

The hit BBC One police drama Blue Lights has taken home the prestigious Best Drama Series award at the BAFTAs.

Created by Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, the show centres on a group of rookie police officers working in modern-day Belfast, navigating the challenges of law enforcement in a society still shaped by its troubled past. Its standout cast includes Sian Brooke, Martin McCann, Katherine Devlin, and Nathan Braniff.

While accepting the award at London’s Royal Festival Hall, co-writer Declan Lawn delivered an emotional tribute:

“Belfast, this one’s for you.”

Now in production for its third season, Blue Lights clinched the win for its critically acclaimed second series, beating out strong contenders including Sherwood, Supacell, and Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light.

Executive producer Stephen Wright called the win “fantastic” and expressed deep gratitude to those who backed the project from the beginning.

“Thank you to the BBC for believing in us, and to NI Screen and BBC Studios for helping us bring this story from Belfast to the world,” he said. “Huge thanks also to Louise Gallagher, Amanda Black, and of course, Adam and Declan.”

Lawn continued the appreciation on stage, praising the show’s cast, crew, and fellow writers:

“Special thanks to Noel McCann and Bronagh Taggart for their incredible writing, and to Adam Patterson, who brought it all to life behind the camera. It’s been quite a ride—and to the people of Belfast, thank you for trusting us to share your stories.”

Beyond its creative success, Blue Lights has made a significant economic impact, generating an estimated £20 million for the Northern Ireland economy through job creation and local investment during its first two seasons. Produced by Two Cities Television, the show boasts strong regional roots, with 83% of its cast and over 87% of its crew hailing from Northern Ireland.