Tensions Rise in Episode Four of ‘Blue Lights’ as Characters Face Crisis

The latest episode of the acclaimed series ‘Blue Lights,’ which aired on October 20, 2025, on BBC1, delivered a blend of domestic moments and escalating tensions. Episode Four, written by Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, opened with a scene of domestic tranquility as characters Stevie Neil, portrayed by Martin McCann, and Grace Ellis, played by Sian Brooke, engaged in light conversation while brushing their teeth. Their exchange quickly shifted to concern for Annie Conlon, a character played by Katherine Devlin, who was coping with her mother’s recent passing while also facing threats from dissidents.

As Annie returned to the Glens for her mother’s wake, the atmosphere remained tense with the presence of Sergeant Lawrence McCloskey, portrayed by Neil Kerry. He was stationed outside the wake house, attempting to ensure safety amid the looming threat. The scene was punctuated by a comment from Aunt Bea, played by Maria Connolly, who expressed her disdain for the police presence, stating, “This is supposed to be a wake – not a bloody police station.”

Inside the wake house, the mood was further complicated by Sandra Cliff, played by Andi Osho, who attempted to lend a hand to the grieving family. Bea’s resistance to outside help highlighted the tension and frustration that permeated the gathering. Meanwhile, in a south Belfast private members’ club, Dana Morgan, played by Cathy Tyson, faced challenges of her own when a persistent woman named Tina McIntyre, portrayed by Abigail McGibbon, sought membership despite the club’s current limitations. Tina’s warning about the potential dangers posed by a Dublin criminal named Fogerty added another layer of intrigue to the plot.

Back in Blackthorn, a subplot focused on Aisling, who faced disciplinary action for her recent actions involving Chief Inspector Gavin Bunting, played by Patrick Buchanan. She had intervened in what she believed to be an assault, but her superiors expressed concern over her mental state, suggesting she might be suffering from PTSD. Aisling’s insistence on her actions being justified contrasted sharply with the bureaucratic response she received, illustrating the struggles faced by those in law enforcement.

As the episode progressed, the narrative intensified when McCloskey discovered a wreath containing a bullet while retrieving flowers from a nearby parochial house. This alarming revelation prompted him to quickly evacuate Annie and Sandra, leading to a frantic scene where Annie expressed her sorrow to her deceased mother. The episode also explored Aisling’s personal journey, as she decided to return a rosary belonging to a deceased accident victim to his grieving parents, highlighting her internal struggle and the risks involved.

Despite its engaging moments, Episode Four was perceived as the weakest installment of the season thus far. Critics noted that the pacing felt uneven and some performances, particularly that of Cathy Tyson as Dana Morgan, came across as overacted. Additionally, pivotal plotlines, such as Aisling’s battle with PTSD, lacked the depth expected by viewers.

While Katherine Devlin’s portrayal of Annie continued to impress, the dynamics between Grace and Stevie felt disjointed. Nevertheless, Neil Kerry’s performance as McCloskey added a new dimension to the series. As the narrative unfolds, it remains uncertain whether ‘Blue Lights’ can regain its momentum in the remaining episodes.

With two episodes left in the season, there is still hope for creators Lawn and Patterson to deliver a thrilling conclusion that revitalizes the series. Viewers are left eagerly anticipating how the storylines will develop in the coming weeks, with the potential for dramatic resolutions and character growth.

Episode Four of ‘Blue Lights’ is available for viewing on the BBC iPlayer.