Blue Lights series 4: Nathan Braniff Interview

Nathan Braniff plays Tommy Foster

BBC drama Blue Lights is back for series 4 on Tuesday, 29 September 2026.. Three years into their roles as response officers, Constables Grace Ellis, Tommy Foster and Annie Conlon are stretched to breaking point as they confront a new threat that is pushing the police to their limits.

At the same time, the murder trial of Gerry Cliff uncovers a dangerous secret that has remained hidden for years, triggering turmoil within the police and the criminal underworld.

As Grace, Tommy and Annie face difficult choices about their futures, they must confront their biggest challenge yet — and find the courage to uncover the truth.

Nathan Braniff (Tommy Foster)

Last year, we explored the theme of the two-year fade for officers. Where is Tommy now in his career?

Tommy is still feeling that fade. The job is incredibly demanding, and he’s struggling to balance its pressures with challenges in his personal life. It’s taking a toll on him, and he’s finding things difficult. It’s fair to say he’s struggling.

Where does the story pick up in this series?

The story picks up almost exactly where we left off. Belfast is going through a turbulent period, with divided communities and rising tensions. The series explores how the police try to manage those tensions, keep the peace, and protect the public.

What motivates Tommy to put his life on the line every day?

Tommy has finally found somewhere he feels he belongs the PSNI. He loves the job, the people he works with, and the sense of purpose it gives him. That commitment drives him to give everything he has to the role. However, alongside the everyday pressures of policing, Tommy is dealing with problems in his relationship with Aisling. We see a much more vulnerable side of him as he struggles with personal issues, community tensions, and violence against police officers. All of it leaves him questioning whether the job is still worth it.

What was it like having Richard Dormer back on set?

It was great. Although I didn’t share any scenes with him this time, his presence is always felt. It was lovely seeing him at the readthrough and around set. We became very close during the first series, and nearly all our scenes were together so having him back felt special.

Tell us about Tommy and Shane’s relationship this season.

Their relationship continues to improve, although they still have disagreements and moments of tension. They’re learning to understand each other better, and their partnership keeps growing stronger. Off-screen, Frank and I have become closer too, which helps bring more natural chemistry to the characters.

How does the camaraderie within the station define the show?

The relationships between the officers are what make the series special. That sense of friendship exists off-screen too, and we’ve all become close friends, and I think that comes across in the performances.

How is this season bigger and more evolved than the previous three?

The scale is much larger. There are more stunts, more action, bigger set pieces, and even pyrotechnics and explosions. It feels like the most ambitious season yet.

What are Tommy’s aspirations for the future?

At this point, his main goal is simply to stay in the job. He’s committed to policing, but this series puts him under serious pressure. Ultimately, he wants to build a successful career and possible even earn the same respect as officers like Gerry, Stevie, and even maybe Collie from C3.

Blue Lights returns to BBC One and iPlayer, Tuesday, 29 September 2026.

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