Martin Compston Reflects on His Career and Upcoming Projects

The BBC has announced the return of its acclaimed series *Line of Duty* for a seventh season, following the record-breaking finale of season six, which attracted 17 million viewers in 2021. Martin Compston, who portrays DI Arnott, expressed the significance of the show's prime time slot, stating, “You feel like you’ve got the country in the palm of your hand if you’ve got something good to show them.” He noted that the character of Superintendent Ted Hastings, played by Adrian Dunbar, has resonated deeply with audiences, describing him as “the nation’s uncle” who embodies the desire for good in challenging times.

The Guardian

Compston reflected on the trajectory of his career, acknowledging that while the early seasons of *Line of Duty* were met with modest attention, it was not until the fifth season that the show gained widespread acclaim. He mentioned the pressure of being typecast, but expressed contentment with the recognition, stating, “If they say ‘Line of Duty is the best thing you’ll ever do’, I’m happy.” Compston is also set to star in *Red Eye*, where he plays the head of security at the American embassy during a terrorist attack, a role that draws on his established persona from *Line of Duty*.

The Guardian

In addition to acting, Compston is exploring opportunities in production, driven by a desire to stay engaged during downtime. He described the shift in mindset required for producing, noting the logistical considerations that come into play, such as budgeting for filming locations. One of his notable projects is a biopic about Allan Pinkerton, a Scottish figure who became a prominent lawman in the United States, known for founding the secret service and his work on the Underground Railroad.

The Guardian

While Compston has enjoyed significant success, there are voices in the industry that question the sustainability of typecasting in television. Critics argue that relying heavily on established characters can limit the diversity of roles available to actors, potentially stifling creativity and innovation in storytelling.

The Guardian

• “That 9 o’clock slot, whether it be on a Sunday night or over the holidays, it’s gold dust,” — Martin Compston

The Guardian

• “You get that working-class guilt, you need to do something.” — Martin Compston

The Guardian

• “Getting to play this kick-ass, ex-SAS agent, it’s brilliant fun.” — Martin Compston

The Guardian

*Line of Duty* is set to return, with fans eagerly anticipating the new season. Compston's *Red Eye* will premiere on ITV1 on New Year’s Day at 9 PM, further expanding his repertoire in the television landscape.

The Guardian