By Julie Waters
Bangor-born actor Matthew Forsythia is back on set for the third series of the critically acclaimed BBC police drama Blue Lights, which is currently filming and set to air this autumn.
Matthew reprises his role as Aodhan McAllister, a morally complex solicitor, in the popular crime drama set in post-Troubles Northern Ireland. Blue Lights, created by Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, has become one of the most watched dramas in Northern Ireland, drawing 5.6 million viewers during its second series in 2023.
Due to its success, the BBC has already greenlit a fourth series, with fans eager to see what lies ahead for the gripping characters and evolving storylines.
“This season really ups the ante,” said Matthew. “It dives deep into the challenges police face — from organised crime to domestic violence. There are touching, emotional moments alongside intense, high-stakes scenes.”
Matthew teased a deeper look at his character’s journey:
“You’ll see more of McAllister’s backstory. He faces moral dilemmas and is pushed to his limits, making audiences question what they thought they knew about him.”
More Stage Time for Matthew: Lockdown DLA at The MAC, Belfast
In addition to his TV role, Matthew will also star in the summer production of Lockdown DLA at The MAC Belfast from June 25–29, marking five years since the first UK lockdown.
Written by comedian Stephen Large, the comedy is based on the viral Dundonald Liberation Army satire page. Matthew plays John ‘Horse’ McCracken, right-hand man to Davy ‘The Venezuelan’ Taylor (played by Matthew McElhinney), as the two characters are forced to isolate in a high-rise flat.
“It’s a hilarious look at lockdown life — banana bread, panic buying, and trying to follow the rules while others didn’t,” said Matthew. “It’s fun, sharp, and the audience really connects with it.”
The two Matthews previously worked together on the award-winning one-man show A Night in November, with McElhinney directing Forsythia’s tour-de-force performance of over 20 characters.
“We’ve got great chemistry on stage — it’s a blast to perform,” Matthew added.
Catch Matthew Forsythia in Blue Lights Season 3 this Autumn on BBC
️ Tickets for Lockdown DLA at The MAC are available at themaclive.com
