Siân Brooke, who plays Constable Grace Ellis in the BBC series 'Blue Lights', has discussed the show's focus on authenticity and its impact on her personal life. Brooke, who was Bafta-nominated this year, recounted an instance where she became suspicious of activity near her London home, leading her husband to remind her, "You're not a real cop!"
The acclaimed drama, now in its fourth series, features scenes depicting protests outside a migrant centre escalating into a riot. Brooke noted that these scenes were filmed in spring, weeks before similar anti-immigration riots occurred in Belfast.
Brooke highlighted the show's dedication to realism, mentioning that police advisers are consistently on set to guide the cast on protocols and managing disturbances. The cast also undergoes regular firearms training refreshers. Brooke's father, a former police officer, has approved of the show's portrayal of police life.
The upcoming series will explore social media's role in mobilising communities, with Brooke's character, Grace, having her identity revealed online, putting her safety at risk.